The Super Eagles moved a step closer to 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification after edging Lesotho 2-1 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, on Friday in a match that could prove decisive for Nigeria’s campaign.
Troost Ekong gave Nigeria the perfect start by converting a penalty following a handball in the Lesotho box, sending the home fans into jubilation.
Akor Adams later doubled the advantage with a clinical finish, seemingly putting Nigeria in control. Lesotho responded with a goal from Kalake, but the Eagles held firm to secure the crucial three points.
However, Benin Republic scored in their own match, meaning Nigeria remain behind on points and goal difference in Group C. With only one game remaining in the group, the Eagles’ fate is not entirely in their hands.
The Super Eagles moved a step closer to 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification after edging Lesotho 2-1 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, on Friday in a match that could prove decisive for Nigeria’s campaign.
Troost Ekong gave Nigeria the perfect start by converting a penalty following a handball in the Lesotho box, sending the home fans into jubilation.
Akor Adams later doubled the advantage with a clinical finish, seemingly putting Nigeria in control. Lesotho responded with a goal from Kalake, but the Eagles held firm to secure the crucial three points.
However, Benin Republic scored in their own match, meaning Nigeria remain behind on points and goal difference in Group C. With only one game remaining in the group, the Eagles’ fate is not entirely in their hands.
With Nigeria on 14 points and Benin now leading the group, the Eagles still have several pathways to automatic
Nigeria trail Benin (+5) and South Africa (+3), so scoring more goals and keeping a clean sheet could be decisive if teams finish level on points.
A strong performance in the last round could see Nigeria overtake the leaders and secure the top spot.
For Lesotho, the defeat is a harsh blow, effectively ending their hopes of qualifying from the group. With nine points from five matches, they now need an almost impossible combination of results to stay in contention.
