Super Eagles win Lesotho 2-1 to keep World Cup qualification hope alive

Nigeria’s Super Eagles moved a step closer to 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification after edging Lesotho 2-1 on Friday in a match that could prove decisive for Nigeria’s campaign.

Troost Ekong gave Nigeria the perfect start in the 55th minute 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 in the 80th minute, seemingly putting Nigeria in control. Lesotho responded in the 83rd minute 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 remains 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 with 17 points, the Eagles still have several pathways to automatic qualification:

The first pathway is to win the final match against Benin Republic. A victory is essential for the team to stay in contention.

The second pathway is for the Super Eagles to hope for a slip-up. Benin Republic and South Africa must drop points in their last fixtures.

The third pathway is to improve the goal difference. Nigeria trails Benin and South Africa, so scoring more goals and keeping a clean sheet could be decisive if teams finish level on points.

A final-day showdown could also be crucial. A strong performance in the last round could see Nigeria overtake the leaders, Benin Republic, 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.