Super Eagles edge Lesotho 2-1 to keep 2026 World Cup hopes alive

Nigeria’s Super Eagles revived their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a crucial 2-1 victory over Lesotho on Friday evening, October 9, 2025.

With two matches left in the group stage, the Super Eagles went into the game sitting third on 11 points, trailing Benin Republic and South Africa, who both had 14 points.

Head coach Eric Chelle fielded a strong attacking lineup featuring Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare upfront, supported by Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon in midfield. Stanley Nwabali kept his place in goal, backed by a defensive unit of Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Fredrick, William Troost-Ekong, and Wilfred Ndidi, who played a deeper role. Ademola Lookman and Tochukwu Onyemaechi added pace and width on the flanks.

After a goalless first half, Nigeria took the lead early in the second half through captain William Troost-Ekong, who converted a penalty following a handball in the box. Debutant Akor Adams extended the lead in the 81st minute after being set up by Osimhen.

Lesotho, however, pulled one back two minutes later when Hlompho Kalak capitalized on a rebound from Nwabali’s save to make it 2-1. Despite a few nervy moments, including another Nwabali error, the Super Eagles held firm to secure the win.

Nigeria remains third in the group, behind Benin Republic with 17 points and South Africa with 15 points, setting up a tense finale in the qualification race.