Football enthusiasts in Imo have tipped the Super Eagles of Nigeria for victory over the Likuena (crocodiles) of Lesotho in Friday’s World Cup qualifier tie.
Some football lovers and stakeholders who spoke with C-Advocate correspondent in Owerri, on Thursday, expressed this hope.
Southeast Secretary of the Sports Writers Association Of Nigeria (SWAN), Mr Kennedy Onwunali, said that the encounter is expected to be tough for both teams as it is a must-win for Nigeria who pride as continental giants.
Onwunali however said that their Lesotho counterparts will be expected to take pride in defending the honour of the Southern Africa union, having caused South Africa to drop three points in a previous encounter.
“ After causing South Africa to drop three points, Lesotho will come out determined to prove a point “, he said.
He however noted that with the expected hostility from the home supporters, the Super Eagles must be prepared for a very challenging match, “one that may require winning ugly rather than playing to the gallery”.
Speaking, the Imo SWAN Chairman, Mr Cosmos Chukwuemeka, said that with the Super Eagles currently sitting third in Group C, victories against Lesotho and Benin Republic remained the only lifeline to remain in contention for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.
Chukwuemeka said that the Likuena picked up a valuable point in Uyo under former coach José Peseiro, hence the need for the Nigerian side to go all out and take advantage of the neutral ground — their adopted home venue, the Peter Mokaba Stadium in South Africa.
“ Nigeria’s only away win in the qualifiers came under current coach Eric Chelle, when the team defeated Rwanda in Kigali.
“ The two previous coaches, José Peseiro and Finidi George, failed to secure any away wins during their respective spells.
“ Given that record, we are confident that the Super Eagles can overcome Lesotho and then turn their attention to a crucial clash against their former gaffer, Gernot Rohr, who now manages table-toppers Benin Republic, following the three points docked from South Africa for fielding an ineligible player “, he said.
Also, Mr Jackson Iwueze, a grassroots coach said that the Super Eagles cannot afford to lose given the high stakes.
He urged them to give their all and teach younger talents a vital lesson in resilience for the country’s badge.