The head coach of Nigeria has reacted to the news of a possible points deduction for South Africa after their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes were dashed by Zimbabwe.
Check Out: Forgotten Star Shines: Ex-Downs Forward Scores Hat-Trick
The Super Eagles were unable to build on their first win in their World Cup qualification campaign against Rwanda when they came up against the Warriors.
After attempting to break down a resolute Zimbabwean defence for much of the encounter, Victor Osimhen found the back of the net for the three-time African champions in the 72nd minute. While it looked as though they were about to make it back-to-back victories in qualification, Tawanda Chirewa scored a late equaliser for the Southern Africans and the sides shared the spoils.
The result leaves Nigeria six points behind group table toppers South Africa with four matches to play. While the lead looks increasingly unassailable, they will be given hope of potential qualification after news broke that three points could be deducted from Bafana Bafana.
When Nigeria boss Eric Chelle was quizzed on the possible qualification lifeline, he said, as per Daily Post Nigeria: "I don't want to tell you about that. I said yesterday we are focused on our game, so this is why I talked to my guys after the game.
"I told them to look forward to second place. They did a great job during the ten days, so they deserve this qualification.
"I am trusting them and maybe if South Africa loses three points, the last game is against Rwanda so we can pass this team and after that we have a game against South Africa.
Check Out: Official: Lesotho Break Silence On Mokoena Yellow Card Debacle
"If it is true, we will see what happens in the coming days."
