Nigeria’s Super Eagles commenced their 2026 World Cup campaign on a shaky start as a resilient Lesotho side held Nigeria to a 1-1 draw at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo on Thursday in Group C.
The three-time African Cup of Nations winner despite controlling possession failed to create any clear cut goal scoring chances against Lesotho in the game.
But then, the team was punished as the Crocodiles of Lesotho took a shock lead in the 56th minute thanks to Motlomelo Mkhawanazi’s goal to silence the home supporters.
Francis Uzoho’s poor judgement of the ball allowed Lesotho player to get the ball before him.
However, in the 67th minute, the Super Eagles leveled parity through Semi Ajayi’s goal to give the team an element of hope.
But all efforts to score the vital goal proved abortive as Lesotho kept their backline very tight to ensure they share a point with Nigeria.
The Super Eagles will next face Zimbabwe on Sunday at the Huye Stadium in Butare, in a game Nigeria must pick the maximum points if they are to brighten their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
