Chijioke Gabriel
Nigeria’s Super Eagles inched closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lesotho on Friday. The win could prove pivotal in their bid to qualify from CAF Group C.
The breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Troost Ekong converted a penalty following a handball in the Lesotho box, sending the Nigerian fans into celebration. Akor Adams then doubled the lead in the 80th minute with a precise finish, giving the Eagles what looked like a comfortable advantage.
Lesotho fought back quickly, with Kalake scoring in the 83rd minute, but Nigeria held firm to secure the crucial three points.
Despite the win, Nigeria remains behind Benin Republic, who now top Group C with 17 points, leaving the Eagles on 14 points. South Africa sits in second, also ahead on points and goal difference. With only one match remaining, Nigeria’s fate is not fully in their hands.
Pathways to Qualification
Defeat Benin Republic in the final group match – a must-win to remain in contention.
Rely on slip-ups from South Africa in their remaining fixture.
Improve goal difference – scoring more goals against Benin while keeping a clean sheet could be decisive if teams finish level on points.
Friday’s loss is a major setback for Lesotho, whose hopes of progressing are now dashed. With nine points from five matches, they face a mission-impossible and will only play for pride.
The Super Eagles now look ahead to a final-day showdown with Benin, a game that could ultimately decide the top spot in Group C and their automatic qualification hopes.