Over the course of the 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP qualifiers that started on November 16, 2023, the Super Eagles experienced chaos and catharsis: three coaches, too many missed opportunities, and one last surge that kept their World Cup dream flickering into the playoffs.
Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying journey has been a story of high hopes, serious setbacks, and late redemption — a campaign that tested the nation’s patience and pride in equal measure.
When Nigeria began their qualifying campaign against Lesotho, the sounds of the Akwa Ibom supporters’ drums reverberated.
It was meant to be regular stroll in the park on paper, but it was actually a startling wake-up call.
Despite dominating possession, the Super Eagles lacked bite, and their motions were laborious and predictable.
There was silence in the crowd when Lesotho unexpectedly took the lead halfway through the second half.
Semi Ajayi’s header saved a 1-1 tie, but the hope of starting the qualifiers with a victory gave way to silent annoyance throughout.
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