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 result keeps Nigeria within striking distance of group leaders Benin Republic, setting up a tense final round of qualifiers.
After a goalless first half, Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when captain William Troost-Ekong calmly slotted home a penalty following a handball in the Lesotho box. The breakthrough sent the home crowd into raptures and gave the Eagles the momentum they needed.
Striker Akor Adams extended Nigeria’s lead in the 80th minute with a composed finish, seemingly sealing the win. However, Lesotho responded swiftly, with Hlompho Kalake pulling one back just three minutes later to set up a nervy finish. Despite the late pressure, Nigeria held on to secure all three points.
The win lifts Nigeria to 14 points, but they remain behind Benin Republic, who lead Group C with 17 points after their own victory. With only one match left in the group stage, the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes are still alive—but not entirely in their control.
To secure automatic qualification, Nigeria must defeat Benin Republic in their final group match. A win would bring them level on points, but goal difference could become the deciding factor. Currently, Nigeria trails both Benin and South Africa in that metric.
Another possible route involves hoping for a slip-up from either Benin or South Africa in their respective final fixtures. Any dropped points by their rivals could open the door for Nigeria to leapfrog into the top spot.
Improving goal difference is also a critical factor. A dominant win over Benin, coupled with a clean sheet, could prove decisive if teams finish level on points. The Super Eagles will need to be clinical in attack and resolute in defense.
For Lesotho, the loss is a significant setback. With just nine points from five matches, their chances of qualifying are now slim, requiring an unlikely combination of results to stay in contention.
All eyes now turn to the final matchday, where Nigeria’s clash with Benin Republic could determine the group’s World Cup representative. The stakes couldn’t be higher.
