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.
Heading into the must-win clash, Nigeria sat third in their qualifying group with 11 points—three behind leaders Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa, who both had 14 points. With just two matches left in the group stage, the win was vital to keep their campaign alive.
Head coach Eric Chelle opted for an attacking lineup, pairing Victor Osimhen with Tolu Arokodare up front, supported by midfielders Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon. Stanley Nwabali started in goal once again, shielded by a solid back line of Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Fredrick, William Troost-Ekong, and Wilfred Ndidi, who continued in a deep-lying defensive role.
Ademola Lookman and Tochukwu Onyemaechi were deployed on the flanks, offering pace and width as Nigeria sought to dominate possession and break through Lesotho’s compact defence.
The first half ended goalless despite Nigeria’s pressure, but the breakthrough came early in the second half when captain William Troost-Ekong calmly converted a penalty after a Lesotho defender handled the ball in the box.
In the 81st minute, debutant Akor Adams doubled the lead, finishing off a smart assist from Osimhen. However, Lesotho hit back almost immediately, with Hlompho Kalak scoring after Nwabali failed to clear a loose ball following a corner kick.
The hosts pushed for an equaliser and nearly capitalised on more uncertainty from Nwabali, but Nigeria held on for a hard-fought win.
Despite the victory, the Super Eagles remain third in the group—Benin now lead with 17 points, followed by South Africa on 15. Nigeria, on 14 points, still have work to do, with everything set to be decided on the final match day.
