Nigeria vs Zimbabwe Preview & Betting Tips - Goals expected in open contest
Nigeria's Super Eagles return to action for the first time since their AFCON third-place finish, facing Zimbabwe with a much-changed squad for the Unity Cup. While Nigeria boasts a strong unbeaten record in this fixture, Zimbabwe hopes to exploit the Super Eagles' experimental lineup. Both teams have been scoring and conceding regularly, suggesting an open game with goals at both ends. The recommendation is to expect both sides to score, with odds of 1.90 for this outcome at Stake.
- Nigeria unbeaten in 7 matches vs Zimbabwe.
- Both teams have scored in their last two encounters.
- Experimental Nigeria squad could lead to an open, high-scoring game.
The Super Eagles are back in action for the first time since finishing third at the AFCON in Morocco. Zimbabwe will be hopeful against Nigeria’s much-changed squad, and I fancy an open contest, with both teams expected to score.
Key Stats
- Both teams have scored in their last two meetings.
- Nigeria have scored in nine of their last 10 matches.
- Nigeria have conceded in seven of their last 10 matches.
- Zimbabwe have scored in their last seven matches.
- Zimbabwe have conceded in seven of their last 10 matches.
Super Eagles Unblemished Against Zimbabwe
Nigeria have a solid record in this fixture and are unbeaten in seven matches against Zimbabwe. The Super Eagles have earned four wins, while the last three meetings have ended in draws.
Nigeria in Good Form
Despite not winning the AFCON in January and missing out on the World Cup, Nigeria’s overall form has been solid lately. They are unbeaten in eight of their last nine matches, picking up six wins in this run.
Nigeria played two friendlies in March and were unbeaten in both matches. They earned a 2-1 victory over World Cup-bound Iran before playing out a 2-2 draw with Jordan a few days later.
The Super Eagles have a different squad for the Unity Cup as coach Eric Chelle intends to give some new players a chance. There are also friendlies against Poland and Portugal on the horizon, which will be played by the main squad.
Zimbabwe Often Inconsistent
Beyond their poor record against Nigeria, Zimbabwe have been a bit below their best lately. They head into this clash with just three wins from their last 10 matches.
The Warriors had a poor outing at the AFCON in Morocco, failing to earn a single win in the group stage. They were beaten twice, losing 2-1 to Egypt before suffering a 3-2 defeat to South Africa.
However, Kaitano Tembo’s team have had some positivity lately and claimed a 3-0 victory over Botswana in a friendly in March.
Team News
Nigeria (4-2-3-1): Arthur Okonkwo; Emmanuel Fernandez, Igoh Ogbu, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Bruno Onyemaechi; Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika; Philip Otele, Moses Simon, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro; Akor Adams.
The Super Eagles have several new players in the squad as Arthur Okonkwo, Chibuike Nwaiwu, and Philip Otele are all set to make their debuts. However, there are still a few experienced players, with the likes of Moses Simon, Wilfred Ndidi, and Terem Moffi, who have featured in games against Zimbabwe in the past.
Zimbabwe (3-5-2): Elvis Chipezeze; Gerald Takwara, Jordan Zemura, Munashe Garananga; Jonah Fabisch, Marshall Munetsi, Marvelous Nakamba, Prosper Fadera, Tawanda Chirewa; Tawanda Maswanhise, Prince Dune.
Tino Kadawere was part of the initial squad for Zimbabwe but picked up an injury and has now been ruled out. Meanwhile, Bill Antonio and Divine Lunga both withdrew from the squad due to unspecified reasons.
Verdict
Nigeria may have a good record in this fixture, but the experimental squad might lead to a lack of cohesion in the team. I expect an open contest here, both teams backed to score.
Yes
Both Teams to Score
@9/10 - 3 Units
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