The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their campaign to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on a shaky start at home as they were held to a 1-1 draw by the Crocodiles of Lesotho in their first match played on Thursday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom state capital.
In front of a sparse crowd inside the 30,000 capacity stadium, the Eagles team without the injured Victor Osimhen failed to capitalise on the advantage of playing on their home turf, with missed chances during the match.
Lesotho took a shock lead in the 56th minute through Motlomelo Mkhwanazi, who rose highest to direct a header from a corner kick past Eagles goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho
Eagles midfielder Oluwasemilogo Ajayi equalised 11 minutes later after being assisted by Kelechi Iheanacho in the 67th minute.
The Super Eagles will hope to get all three points at stake when they fly to Rwanda on Sunday to tackle the Warriors of Zimbabwe in a Day 2 encounter.
