Jose Peseiro: Ex-Porto and Braga coach brushes off sack speculation after Nigeria’s draw with Lesotho

The Portuguese tactician is under fresh pressures after guiding the three-time African champions to a disappointing result against the Crocodiles

Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro, has swiftly dismissed any rumours of his imminent departure from the helm of the team following Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Lesotho in the 2026 World Cup qualifier opener in Uyo, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 2013 African champions were trailing against the 153rd-ranked Lesotho, with Motlomelo Mkhwanazi converting their first shot on target. However, Semi Ajayi’s header in the 67th minute salvaged a point for Nigeria.

While addressing questions after the encounter, Peseiro was queried about the possibility of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) terminating his contract based on the match result.

In response, the former Porto and SC Braga manager defended his position, stating, “Why should I be sacked? Let me explain the performance.

“We created many opportunities to score. Our opponent only had two shots and scored from one of them. I am sad, of course, and a bit disappointed also.

“But my team tried to get the maximum points. I am sad because of the result, but about the performance, Lesotho stayed behind all through for 90 minutes. They only came forward two or three times.”

Looking ahead, Nigeria will look to rectify their course when they lock horns with Zimbabwe on Sunday at the Stade Huye in Rwanda.