Nigeria’s Super Eagles have revived their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2‑1 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane. The win places Nigeria third in Group C with 14 points, behind leaders Benin Republic (17 points) and South Africa (15 points). Benin Republic maintained its group lead after a 1‑0 win over Rwanda in Kigali, while South Africa were held to a goalless draw by Zimbabwe in Durban, adding complexity to the standings.
Nigeria will host Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday for a crucial final group match, and South Africa will face Rwanda on the same day. The outcomes will determine the final standings and which teams advance to the World Cup. A victory against Benin, combined with a slip‑up by South Africa, would secure Nigeria’s qualification for the tournament to be co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Super Eagles started strongly against Lesotho, with Tolu Arokodare’s header rattling the crossbar in the 12th minute. After several missed chances, Nigeria took the lead in the 54th minute when captain William Ekong converted a penalty after a Lesotho defender handled the ball. The Eagles continued to press: Alex Iwobi had two quick opportunities, Victor Osimhen’s chip struck the upright, and another deflected effort hit the woodwork. Osimhen eventually set up debutant Jerome Akor Adams, who scored Nigeria’s second goal in the 80th minute. Lesotho pulled one back in the 83rd minute through Hlompho Kalake from a corner, but Nigeria held on to secure the win.
Nigeria’s triumph over Lesotho has kept its World Cup hopes alive, and the team will look to capitalize on this momentum in the upcoming clash with Benin Republic. The final matches will be closely watched as the groups battle for a spot in the prestigious tournament.
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