Milwall's Azeez shines like a thousand stars as Eagles beat Zimbabwe in Unity Cup opener

NIGERIA'S Super Eagles got their Unity Cup campaign off to a flying start yesterday with a comfortable 2-0 victory of Zimbabwe thanks to a brace of goals from Milwall striker Femi Azeez who scored once in each half.

Last night, Nigeria faced the Warriors of Zimbabwe in the opening game of the tournament at Charlton Athletic's Valley ground. British-born Azeez, 24, who plies his trade with English Championship side Milwall, proved decisive on the night, delivering a standout performance on his first appearance for the national team.

This victory sees the Eagles continue their strong run in the competition as they eye back-to-back titles going into the final over the weekend when they will play the winner of the Jamaica vs India match. Nigeria were crowned champions at Brentford in 2025 after winning the final against Jamaica on penalties and will now be looking forward to repeating this feat on May 30.

Yesterday, Azeez opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a powerful strike from outside the box, giving Nigeria an early advantage and settling any early nerves. After that, Nigeria dominated large spells of the first half with  dangerous attacking play down the flanks causing constant problems for Zimbabwe’s defence..

Alhassan Ibrahim and Terem Moffi both came close to extending the lead, while Zimbabwe struggled to create clear chances against a well-organised Nigerian backline. However, the Warriors improved after the restart and briefly threatened an equaliser but Nigeria remained composed, fending off their attacks.

Then, the breakthrough for the second goal came in the 62nd minute when Moffi led a swift counter-attack before unselfishly squaring the ball for Azeez, who calmly slotted home. Last night's match involved a full debut for Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, who started in goal and delivered a composed performance.

Also making their debuts were  Chibueze Oputa, Obinna Igboke, Samson Tijani and Alhassan Ibrahim as the coaching staff continued to integrate new players into the squad. In the 77th minute, Nigeria made a double change as Philip Otele and Samson Tijani were replaced by Tosin Oyedokun and Owen Oseni, who also made their senior debuts.

Player rating

Goalkeeper

Arthur Okonkwo (7/10): The Wrexham goalkeeper was largely untested throughout the game but remained composed whenever called upon. He also looked comfortable in possession.

Defenders

Chibuike Nwaiwu (8/10): Nwaiwu complemented Igoh Ogbu well at the heart of the defence and delivered a decent overall performance.

Igoh Ogbu (8/10): Fresh from winning the league title in the Czech Republic, Ogbu produced a commanding display in defence for Nigeria. He was dominant in both aerial and ground duels, playing a key role in helping the Super Eagles keep a clean sheet.

Chibueze Oputa (7/10):  Oputa impressed with a solid defensive performance and also showed willingness to contribute in attack.

Obinna Igboke (6.5/10): Igboke was tidy in possession but will be disappointed with his final delivery and decision-making in attacking situations.

Midfielders and forwards

Alhassan Ibrahim (8/10):  Alhassan delivered a tireless and energetic performance in midfield for the Super Eagles. His work rate allowed Nigeria to regain possession on several occasions while covering plenty of ground.

Samson Tijani (7.5/10): The former Golden Eaglets captain read the game brilliantly and backed it up with several important tackles.

Tochukwu Nnadi (7/10): Nnadi was composed at the base of midfield and rarely gave the ball away during the match.

Femi Azeez (9.5/10): Azeez was the star of the show and produced a match-winning display, scoring a brace to guide Nigeria to victory.

Philip Otele (6/10): Otele endured a below-par outing and struggled to trouble the Warriors’ defence. He also missed a late opportunity after a brilliant team move from Nigeria.

Terem Moffi – 9/10: Wearing the captain's armband, Moffi led by example, providing the two assists for Femi Azeez’s goals.

The substitutes

Rafiu Durosinmi (4.5/10): Durosinmi replaced Terem Moffi in the second half but found it difficult to make a significant impact.

Tosin Oyedokun (5.5/10) Oyedokun came on in midfield during the second half in place of Samson Tijani.

Owen Oseni (5/10): Came off the bench for Otele and showed early signs of what he can offer.

Aderemi Adeoye (NA): Not enough minutes to be rated, having replaced match winner Femi Azeez in stoppage time.