Lesotho’s Crocodiles jolted highly rated Nigeria’s Super Eagles during their 2026 World Cup journey at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo on Thursday in Group C.
Contrary to many Nigerian football fans’ expectations, the 153-ranked Crocodiles scored first through Motlomelo Mkwanazi in the 56th minute before Semi Ajayi equalised for the home side in the 67th minute.
Unexpectedly, Super Eagles are on a shaky start as a resilient Lesotho side held Nigeria to a 1-1 draw.
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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.
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.
No player could convert the beautiful chances created by creative Ihenacho, the Leicester FC midfield maestro as Victor Osihmen, the Italian Napoli top scorer, who would have perfected the finishing was conspicuously absent due to injury.
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.
