Super Eagles edge Lesotho 2-1 in crucial World Cup qualifier to boost 2026 hopes

Abdullateef Fowewe

Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a vital 2-1 victory over Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday night, significantly enhancing their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After a sluggish first half marked by a lack of cohesion and missed opportunities, including a weak header from Tolu Arokodare and a frustrated Victor Osimhen upfront, Nigeria found their footing in the second half.

The breakthrough came in the 55th minute when captain William Troost-Ekong calmly converted a penalty to give the three-time African champions the lead.

Seizing the momentum, debutant Akor Adams marked his first international goal with a clinical finish in the 80th minute, expertly assisted by Osimhen, doubling the lead and electrifying the Nigerian side.

Lesotho refused to bow out quietly and responded quickly, with Hlompho Kalake capitalising on a rare mistake by Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who mishandled a corner kick, pulling one goal back in the 83rd minute.

Despite intense pressure from the visiting Crocodiles in the final moments, Nigeria demonstrated resilience and held firm to secure all three points.

The win comes as Benin defeated Rwanda 1-0 and with South Africa’s draw against Zimbabwe, it propels the Super Eagles closer to the top two spots in Group C, setting up a pivotal phase in the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign.