Lesotho Stuns Nigeria with a 1-1 Draw: Despite Semi Ajayi's Strong Header, Super Eagles Fall Short against Crocodiles

West Bromwich Albion’s defender, Semi Ajayi, emerged as the savior for Nigeria in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, setting the tone for a shaky start. The Super Eagles, Nigeria’s national football team, displayed a lackluster performance, ultimately securing a 1-1 draw against Lesotho at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Thursday.

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Despite the draw, skepticism looms among Nigerian football enthusiasts who doubt the team’s ability to clinch the AFCON title or qualify for the World Cup, especially given their struggles against Lesotho.

In the inaugural game of the World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria was compelled to share points on home turf. While the hosts dominated the match, their efforts lacked the necessary precision in the final third to capitalize on opportunities. Notably, Taiwo Awoniyi missed a crucial chance in the first half, and attempts by Jamilu Collins and Kelechi Iheanacho also fell short. The Super Eagles’ wastefulness proved costly when Lesotho surprisingly took the lead in the second half.

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Lesotho, against the run of play and eight minutes into the second half, capitalized on their first corner as Motlomelo Mkwanazi rose above the rest to head the visitors into a shock lead. The Crocodiles celebrated jubilantly, emphasizing the magnitude of their unexpected achievement.

Facing adversity, Nigeria responded with determination, intensifying their offensive efforts to find an equalizer. Coach Jose Peseiro made strategic substitutions, bringing in Moses Simon and Terem Moffi for Ademola Lookman and Taiwo Awoniyi. Moses Simon, injecting vigor into the attack, earned a crucial corner nine minutes after falling behind. It was from this corner that Semi Ajayi, the West Brom defender, delivered a powerful header, rescuing Nigeria from a potentially disastrous start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

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