Nigeria’s Super Eagles edged Lesotho 2–1 on Friday to keep their 2026 World Cup hopes alive.
Goals from Troost-Ekong and Akor Adams sealed the win as Nigeria stayed in contention for qualification.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles boosted their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Lesotho on Friday.
The win, played in front of an excited home crowd, keeps Nigeria in the race for a place at the top of Group C as the qualifiers approach their final stage.
After a tense first half, William Troost-Ekong broke the deadlock in the 55th minute from the penalty spot after a Lesotho defender handled the ball inside the box. The goal lifted the team’s confidence and energized the fans.
Akor Adams doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 80th minute with a composed finish, giving the hosts what looked like a comfortable advantage. But Lesotho responded just three minutes later through Kalake, who capitalized on a defensive mix-up to pull one back.
Despite late pressure from the visitors, Nigeria held on to claim three valuable points that could prove vital in their qualification campaign.
The result means Nigeria now have 14 points, trailing Benin Republic, who moved to 17 points after their own victory. With only one match left, the Eagles’ chances of topping the group depend on their next performance and other results.
To qualify automatically, Nigeria must win their final game against Benin Republic and also hope that either Benin or South Africa drop points in their closing fixtures. Improving goal difference could also play a major role if teams finish level on points.
For Lesotho, the defeat effectively ends their qualification hopes. They remain on nine points and would now require an unlikely combination of results to progress.
The Super Eagles will now turn their focus to the crucial final-day clash, knowing that only a strong finish can secure their place at the 2026 World Cup.
