SUPER EAGLES DEFEAT LESOTHO 2-1 TO KEEP 2026 WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION HOPES ALIVE

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria inched closer to securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Lesotho 2-1 on Friday in a crucial qualifier that could prove decisive in Group C.

Captain William Troost-Ekong gave Nigeria the breakthrough in the 55th minute, calmly converting a penalty after a Lesotho defender handled the ball in the box, sending the home crowd into celebration.

Akor Adams extended Nigeria’s lead in the 80th minute with a composed finish, seemingly sealing the victory. However, Lesotho reduced the deficit three minutes later through Kalake, setting up a tense finale.

Despite the win, the Super Eagles remain second in Group C after Benin Republic also secured victory in their own match to move three points clear at the top. Nigeria now have 14 points, while Benin lead with 17.

With only one match left to play, Nigeria’s qualification fate is not entirely in their hands. The Eagles must win their final group game ironically against Benin Republic to stand a chance of automatic qualification.

Beyond winning, Nigeria will also need favourable results from other fixtures, hoping Benin Republic or South Africa drop points. Additionally, goal difference could become decisive if teams finish level on points, meaning the Super Eagles must focus on both scoring goals and maintaining defensive solidity.

For Lesotho, the defeat all but ends their qualification hopes. With nine points from five games, their chances of advancing are now extremely slim.

Nigeria’s final match promises to be a high-stakes encounter that could determine their road to the 2026 World Cup.