The Super Eagles of Nigeria took a crucial step toward 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification after defeating Lesotho 2-1 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, on Friday. Goals from William Troost-Ekong and Akor Adams sealed the win, keeping Nigeria’s hopes of topping Group C alive with one match left.
Troost-Ekong and Akor Adams Shine in Key Victory
Captain William Troost-Ekong opened the scoring early from the penalty spot after a Lesotho handball, igniting celebration among home fans. The Super Eagles doubled their lead when Akor Adams finished clinically inside the box, putting Nigeria in firm control.
Lesotho’s Tsepo Kalake pulled one back late in the game, but the Eagles defended well to secure a vital three points. The win keeps Nigeria’s qualification dream alive despite Benin Republic’s win in their own fixture.
Nigeria Still Behind in Group C Standings
After the victory, Nigeria sit on 14 points, trailing Benin Republic on goal difference in Group C. With one match left, the Super Eagles must win their final qualifier and hope either Benin or South Africa drop points.
To boost their chances of World Cup qualification, the Eagles must also improve their goal difference, which currently lags behind Benin (+5) and South Africa (+3).
“We needed this win badly,” said captain Troost-Ekong after the match. “Now, we must stay focused and finish strong in the final game.”
Final-Day Showdown Awaits Super Eagles
Nigeria will face Benin Republic in a decisive final group match that could determine who secures the automatic ticket to the 2026 World Cup. A win could see the Super Eagles leapfrog their rivals, depending on other results.
Friday’s match showed both determination and struggle. Despite fielding top talents like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi, Nigeria struggled to break down Lesotho’s defense in the first half. Long balls and missed chances frustrated fans before the breakthrough came from a penalty ten minutes into the second period.
Lesotho’s Qualification Hopes Fading
For Lesotho, the defeat ends their slim qualification hopes. They remain on nine points from five matches and would now need an unlikely set of results to advance.
Nigeria Eyes World Cup Return
The Super Eagles’ 2-1 win over Lesotho keeps their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive, but the battle is far from over. A strong finish and favorable results elsewhere could see Nigeria secure their spot in the global tournament.
