Super Eagles coach explains why he should not be fired after Lesotho draw

Jose Peseiro, head coach of the Eagles, has refuted suggestions that he may be fired by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Lesotho in the 2026 World Cup qualifier played in Uyo.

The three-time African champions fell behind to a 153rd-ranked club, with Motlomelo Mkhwanazi scoring with their first shot on goal.

However, Semi Ajayi’s header in the 67th minute saved a point for Nigeria, as the star-studded Super Eagles failed to win against their stubborn visitors.

At the post-match press conference in Uyo, Peseiro was asked if the NFF should end his contract based on the result. He responded by saying, “Why should I be sacked? Let me explain the performance.

“We created many opportunities to score. Our opponent only had two shots and scored from one of them.

“I am sad of course and a bit disappointed also. But my team tried to get the maximum points. I am sad because of the result but about the performance, Lesotho stayed behind all through for 90 minutes. They only came forward two or three times.”

Meanwhile, former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh has described Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Lesotho as a national embarrassment.

He said, “Will this nightmare ever end? Woke up to this shocker this morning. Our home base players should beat Lesotho. They even scored us first! The painful part is, no consequences for these national embarrassments.”

The Super Eagles will take on Zimbabwe in their next qualifier on Sunday in Kigali, Rwanda.