Lesotho captain Sekhoane Moerane has delivered a stern warning to the Super Eagles of Nigeria ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash, insisting his side will show no mercy or fear when they meet in Polokwane.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the encounter at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, Moerane declared that Lesotho are focused on fighting for their own qualification dreams, not to do anyone any favours.
“Going into tomorrow’s game, we are not going to show fear,” Moerane said. “One thing we have to do is not to fear our opponents, but to respect them. We will give them respect — but no fear.”
The defender, who captained Lesotho to a 1–1 draw against Nigeria in Uyo back in November 2023, said his team is motivated by national pride and a desire to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive.
“We are going to give our best. We are not doing anyone a favour — we’re playing for our country, playing for Basotho,” he added.
Lesotho currently sit five points behind Group C leaders Benin and South Africa, with two matches remaining in the qualifying series. While their chances of qualifying remain slim, Moerane maintained that his team is determined to make the remaining fixtures count.
Nigeria, on the other hand, are under pressure to secure victory after a string of inconsistent performances, with the Super Eagles’ path to the 2026 World Cup hanging in the balance.
The match kicks off Saturday at 5 PM (local time) in Polokwane.
