What Lesotho captain Moerane said ahead of World Cup qualifier against the Super Eagles

Lesotho captain Sekhoane Moerane has declared that his side will approach Friday's 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier against Nigeria's Super Eagles without fear as the Crocodiles aim to keep their faint qualification hopes alive.

Despite trailing Group C leaders Benin and South Africa by five points with two matches remaining, Lesotho remain mathematically in contention for a World Cup place. 

Their chances hinge on both a positive result against Nigeria and favourable outcomes elsewhere.

Speaking to the media on Thursday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, the venue for the matchday nine clash, Moerane emphasized that while Lesotho would respect the Super Eagles, they would not be intimidated by their star-studded opponents.

"Going into tomorrow's game, we are not going to show fear because one thing we have to do, is not to fear our opponents but we should give them respect," Moerane told reporters.

"We will be going with a lot of respect but not showing fear and that simple means, we are going to go and give them our best of what we have.

"We are not doing anyone a favour but playing for our country, playing for Basotho."

Moerane, a reliable presence between the posts, was instrumental when Lesotho held Nigeria to a 1-1 draw in Uyo in November 2023, a result that stunned the three-time African champions. 

Semi Ajayi rescued the Super Eagles that day, cancelling out Motlomelo Mkwanazi's opener with a second-half header from Kelechi Iheanacho's corner.

Lesotho are seeking another upset against a Nigerian side boasting European-based stars including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi and Moses Simon.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com