
The Super Eagles’ qualification campaign has taken another turn, as Zimbabwe’s players have been promised a $150,000 cash incentive to pull off an upset against both Benin’s Cheetahs and Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Initially, the Warriors—along with their technical crew and support staff—were set to receive $150,000 from the Zimbabwean government for defeating Benin on Thursday. However, that match ended in a 2-2 draw.
Now, another $150,000 is on offer if they can shock Nigeria in Uyo. While the incentive serves as motivation for the Warriors, some might view it as an insult to the three-time African champions given its modest sum.
Nigeria’s journey to the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup—co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico—has been far from smooth. The Super Eagles remain winless in four qualifiers, sitting fifth in Group C behind Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe.