Match Report: Warriors Fall to Nigeria in Unity Cup Semi-Final

The Warriors’ Unity Cup campaign suffered a setback on Tuesday night after Zimbabwe went down 2-0 to Nigeria in the semi-finals at The Valley in London.

Nigeria forward Femi Azeez marked his debut with a brace that secured the Super Eagles’ place in Saturday’s final.

Azeez opened the scoring after just five minutes when he cut inside and fired a left-footed effort from outside the box beyond Warriors debutant goalkeeper Future Sibanda and into the bottom corner.

Despite the early setback, the Warriors gradually settled into the contest and created several promising moments. Jordan Zemura came close in the 32nd minute when he blasted over from range, while Nigerian defender Nwaiwu produced a crucial tackle ten minutes later to deny the advancing Junior Zindoga inside the penalty area.

Zimbabwe showed greater attacking intent after the break and enjoyed some encouraging spells of possession. Munashe Garananga nearly drew the Warriors level when his header drifted over the crossbar shortly before the hour mark.

However, against the run of play, Nigeria struck again just after the hour through Azeez, who tapped home from close range after being picked out by Terem Moffi.

Zimbabwe continued to push forward and looked far improved in the second half, repeatedly finding space in dangerous areas, but the final ball and finishing touch proved elusive.

There were positives for the Warriors, including the international debuts of ZPC Kariba goalkeeper Future Sibanda, who produced a number of important saves in the first half, and substitute Abubakar Moffat, who featured after the interval.

Nigeria, winners of all three previous editions of the Unity Cup, will now face either Jamaica or India in Saturday’s final at The Valley, with Zimbabwe awaiting the 3rd-place playoff to be played at the same venue on the same day.

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