Nigeria Beat Lesotho to Keep 2026 World Cup Dreams Alive
Nigeria kept their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lesotho on Friday evening.
The Super Eagles went into the game in third place in Group C with 11 points, three behind South Africa and group leaders Benin Republic. Eric Chelle’s side knew that only a win would keep them in contention, but despite dominating the first half, they failed to find the back of the net.
After the break, Nigeria were awarded a penalty, which captain William Troost-Ekong converted confidently to give his team the lead. Debutant Akor Adams made it 2-0 with a well-taken strike, but a lapse in concentration at the back allowed Lesotho to pull one goal back late in the game.
Nigeria will complete their qualification campaign against Benin Republic next Tuesday in Uyo.
To qualify, the Super Eagles must defeat Benin Republic by at least two goals, while hoping that South Africa fail to beat Rwanda in their final match.
Meanwhile, there are growing speculations that CAF regulations following Eritrea’s withdrawal from the qualifiers could work in Nigeria’s favour.
According to the rules:
- Nigeria will lose 2 points from their matches against Zimbabwe (dropping to 12 points)
- South Africa will lose 4 points from their matches against Zimbabwe (dropping to 11 points)
- Benin Republic will lose 4 points from their matches against Zimbabwe (dropping to 13 points)
Revised Group C standings (if applied):
- Benin Republic – 14 points
- Nigeria – 12 points
- South Africa – 11 points
Next fixtures:
- Nigeria vs Benin Republic
- South Africa vs Rwanda
