A standout debut from Millwall wide player Femi Azeez helped a freshly reworked, experimental Super Eagles group to a comfortable 2-0 win over Zimbabwe in Unity Cup action last night at Charlton Athletic’s Stadium, The Valley, in London.
With only two complete training sessions together, Coach Eric Chelle’s squad still showed plenty of belief and energy, nullifying a talented Zimbabwe side to secure a spot in Saturday’s final.
Nigeria took control right from the start, pressing aggressively and moving the ball forward quickly. The approach nearly produced a breakthrough within minutes. In the fifth minute, a crisp midfield build-up ended with captain for the day Terem Moffi setting Femi Azeez up at the top of the box. The debutant struck with precision beyond Zimbabwe’s back line to put the Super Eagles 1-0 ahead before the visitors could properly organize. That early goal gave Nigeria the platform to regulate the tempo, keeping the home team in front at the interval while the defense held firm against intermittent counter-attacks.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Nigeria setting the rhythm and waiting for Zimbabwe to create openings as they chased an equalizer. Zimbabwe’s main problem was their inability to deliver the final pass or finish. Despite sustained pressure, they repeatedly fell short when it came to turning possession into clear chances. Nigeria’s persistence finally paid off after the hour mark. In the 63rd minute, a lapse in the defensive line opened the door, and Moffi’s fellow captain Terem Moffi’s teammate—Azeez—benefited as Moffi drove down the left before providing a fast, angled cutback into the area. Azeez reacted sharply to convert and complete his brace, extending Nigeria’s lead to 2-0. The goal all but ended any momentum behind Zimbabwe’s comeback bid, allowing the Super Eagles to see out the closing stages calmly until the final whistle.
Overall, seven players earned their first appearances for the national team and made a strong case for their inclusion. Among the prominent debutants were goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, Enugu Rangers defenders Obinna Igboke and Chibueze Oputa, along with Chibuike Nwaiwu and Philip Otele.
With the win, the Super Eagles book their place directly in Saturday’s final. Their opponents will be the victors of tonight’s second semifinal between Jamaica and India, with that match also scheduled at the same venue.
