By David Faith Boluwatife (IT Student, Ifotech)
Nigeria will miss key players Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and Wilfred Ndidi in their opening 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium today, as reported by The PUNCH.
After failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, drawing 1-1 with Ghana, the Eagles aim to secure a World Cup spot against South Africa, Benin, Rwanda, and Lesotho.
Unbeaten in their last five matches, the Eagles rely on goal scorers Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Boniface, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Terem Moffi to start their qualification campaign with a win following Rwanda and Zimbabwe’s 0-0 draw.
Anticipating a tough match, coach Notsi sees it as an opportunity for the young squad to gain experience. We’re coming here to take advantage of playing one of the best teams on the continent, Notsi said.
Midfielder Raphael Onyedika, likely to make his fourth appearance, emphasized the must-win nature of the game.
We need to put in all our effort to win because our fans and the whole country are counting on us and expecting a win, Onyedika stated, emphasizing the need for resilience under pressure.
