Nigeria’s Super Eagles kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification dream alive on Friday with a hard-fought 2–1 win over Lesotho a result that could prove crucial in their Group C campaign.
Team captain William Troost-Ekong opened the scoring in the 55th minute, calmly converting from the penalty spot after a Lesotho defender was penalised for a handball inside the box. The goal sparked jubilation among the home fans and gave Nigeria the momentum they needed.
Substitute Akor Adams doubled Nigeria’s advantage in the 80th minute with a composed finish, seemingly putting the Super Eagles in control. But Lesotho refused to give up, pulling one back through Kalake in the 83rd minute to set up a tense finale.
Despite late pressure, Nigeria held firm to secure all three points and momentarily revive their qualification hopes.
However, the group standings remain tight as Benin Republic also won their fixture, keeping them top of the table.
With Benin leading on 17 points and Nigeria trailing with 14, the Eagles’ fate is not entirely in their own hands. The final round of matches will now determine who progresses automatically from Group C.
To qualify, Nigeria must defeat Benin Republic in their last game a must-win encounter that could seal their passage if results elsewhere go their way.
Alternatively, the Super Eagles could still advance if Benin or South Africa drop points in their final fixtures, or if Nigeria improve their goal difference significantly.
The showdown against Benin promises to be decisive, as the Super Eagles aim to reclaim top spot and secure a direct ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
For Lesotho, the defeat all but ends their qualification hopes. With nine points from five matches, they would now need an unlikely combination of results to remain in contention.
