The Super Eagles of Nigeria reignited their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes on Friday with a hard-fought 2–1 win over Lesotho in a crucial Group C encounter.
The match, played under intense pressure, saw Nigeria come from a sluggish first half to secure all three points in front of their home supporters.
After a goalless first 45 minutes, Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when captain William Troost-Ekong calmly converted a penalty following a handball inside the Lesotho penalty area. The goal lifted the energy at the stadium, giving the Super Eagles renewed momentum.
Nigeria doubled their advantage in the 80th minute through Akor Adams, who fired home a well-placed shot after a swift attacking move. The goal appeared to seal the contest, but Lesotho hit back just three minutes later. Kalake capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot past Nigeria’s goalkeeper, reducing the deficit to 2–1 and creating late tension.
Despite the late scare, Nigeria held firm through determined defending and experienced game management, ensuring they claimed the crucial three points.
However, results elsewhere dampened the celebration slightly. Group leaders Benin Republic secured a win in their own fixture, keeping them three points ahead of Nigeria in the standings.
With just one match left in the qualifiers, Nigeria now sit on 14 points, trailing Benin, who lead with 17 points. The Super Eagles’ qualification hopes remain alive — but not entirely within their control.
To qualify automatically, Nigeria must:
- Win their final match — a decisive clash against Benin Republic — to stay in contention.
- Hope for a slip-up from either Benin or South Africa in their remaining fixtures.
- Boost their goal difference, which could prove crucial if teams finish level on points.
For Lesotho, the defeat ends their faint World Cup qualification hopes. With nine points from five games, they would now need an improbable combination of results to advance.
As the Super Eagles look ahead to their final showdown, fans across the country are rallying behind the team, hoping for a repeat of their strong second-half performance — and perhaps a little luck — to keep Nigeria’s World Cup dream alive.
