Super Eagles Scrape 2-1 Victory Over Lesotho, Keeping World Cup Dream Alive But Face Must-Win Final Clash Against Benin Republic

The Super Eagles of Nigeria clinched a nervy but crucial 2-1 victory over Lesotho on Friday at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, a result that has kept their qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive in a fiercely competitive Group C.

Despite controlling possession, Nigeria failed to find a breakthrough in a frustratingly goalless first half against a resolute Lesotho side. The deadlock was finally broken in the 55th minute when Captain William Troost-Ekong confidently converted a penalty kick awarded for a handball in the box, giving the Super Eagles the essential lead.

The advantage was doubled in the 80th minute by substitute Akor Adams, who marked his senior debut with a clinical finish after being set up by Victor Osimhen. However, the momentary lapse in concentration allowed Lesotho to pull one back just three minutes later through Hlompho Kalake, capitalising on a defensive mix-up from a corner kick and setting up a frantic final few minutes. The Eagles ultimately held firm to secure the three vital points.

The victory, however, was immediately overshadowed by results from other Group C matches, which have made Nigeria’s path to automatic qualification complex. Benin Republic defeated Rwanda 1-0 to climb to the top of the group with 17 points, while South Africa drew 0-0 with Zimbabwe, moving them to 15 points. Nigeria currently sits in third place with 14 points.

The Super Eagles’ fate now rests on their final group game: a must-win clash against table-toppers Benin Republic in Uyo next week. The team will need a victory in that final encounter and hope for favourable results elsewhere, particularly an improved goal difference, to leapfrog the leaders and secure the sole automatic ticket to the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.