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2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Super Eagles edge Lesotho to keep qualification hopes alive
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigeria’s senior men’s national team kept their faint qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive with a 2–1 victory over Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Friday.
Goals from William Troost-Ekong and Akor Adams secured the much-needed win for the Super Eagles, who were far from their fluent best.
The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides struggling to find rhythm and create clear chances.
Nigeria, however, began the second half with more urgency and were rewarded in the 55th minute when captain Troost-Ekong converted from the penalty spot after a Lesotho defender handled the ball inside the box.
Moments later, Victor Osimhen came close to doubling the lead but saw his strike crash against the crossbar.
The Super Eagles eventually found their second goal in the 80th minute, as debutant Akor Adams latched onto a pass from Osimhen, dribbled past his marker, and slotted home confidently.
Lesotho pulled one back just three minutes later when Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali spilled a corner kick, allowing Hlompho Kalako to fire home from close range.
Despite late pressure from the hosts, Nigeria held on to secure maximum points.
The victory means the Super Eagles must now defeat Benin Republic on Tuesday, October 14, while hoping South Africa drop points in their final Group C fixture to boost Nigeria’s chances of topping the group or securing a playoff spot as one of the best second-placed teams.
