By Daily Sports Nigeria on November 17, 2023

Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro says the team’s 1-1 draw against Lesotho in their opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Uyo on Thursday was an ill-fated encounter rather than a flat-footed performance.

The Super Eagles failed to inspire under a rainy atmosphere at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, as they were held at home by their visitors in front of a handful of fans. Lesotho are ranked 153rd in the world – 113 places behind Nigeria who are 40th.

After a goalless first half, Motlomelo Mkwanazi gave Lesotho a shock lead from a corner before West Brom centre-back Semi Ajayi headed Nigeria level from a Kelechi Iheanacho’s corner 11 minutes later.

Peseiro’s men continued their dominance but couldn’t break their resilient visitors who snatched a point.

“We had 76 per cent of the ball possession to their 24 per cent. We played against a team that had just two shots while we were unlucky in the attack. We are sad about the result,” Peseiro said during the post-match presser.

Nigeria’s draw against the minnows hands the advantage in Group C to South Africa and Benin Republic who are yet to play in the qualifying series.

Meanwhile, Nigeria are second in the group behind Lesotho while Rwanda and Zimbabwe who also played a goalless draw on Wednesday are third and fourth.

The Super Eagles will next face Zimbabwe at their adopted ground in Rwanda on Sunday.

Source Punch Ng

Posted November 17, 2023

Chelsea’s Kante Ruled Out of Sheffield United Clash...

NLO: Remo Stars Academy Win Again To Keep...

Peseiro: Portugal Boss Faces Selection Dilemma

CAF readies to issue Pro Licence

Eaglets Fly To Niger Republic Without Manu Garba...

Transfer: Man Utd eyes Chelsea’s Chalobah