As Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare for a crucial World Cup qualifying encounter against Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, optimism still lingers among football stakeholders — especially from those who once donned the green and white jersey with pride.
Engineer Waidi Akanni, a former Nigerian international and convener of the Lagos Legend Club (LLC), has expressed cautious hope that victory over Lesotho could reignite Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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In an exclusive chat with Awijare Sports News, Akanni emphasized that the match represents a turning point for the Super Eagles, insisting that the team must approach it with total focus and belief.
“Yeah, I think today’s match, or let me put it this way — today’s matches are very important,” Akanni said. “Things can change. Football is dynamic, so I think if the Super Eagles can take care of their own business, meaning win against Lesotho in South Africa, then hope rises. But anything short of a win today will shut the doors for Nigeria in the World Cup race. That’s my opinion.”
The former defender also addressed the tendency among fans and analysts to place blame solely on players or the coaching staff whenever the national team struggles.
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“A lot of people put the blame on players and management, but I think it’s a collective responsibility,” he explained. “We didn’t prepare well for the early matches of the qualifiers, and that’s why we are in this position. Now we just need to take one game at a time. We’ve got two matches left. Lesotho today is very important — win that and the hope rises. I don’t like waiting for other results. Take care of your own match first.”
The Super Eagles currently find themselves in a precarious position in the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers, having dropped crucial points in earlier matches. With Lesotho, a team once considered minnows, showing strong form in the group, the pressure is on Nigeria to deliver a statement performance in Polokwane.
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A win today could be the lifeline the Super Eagles desperately need — and for passionate observers like Waidi Akanni, it’s a fight worth believing in.
