Osimhen, Lookman to spearhead attack in must-win tie against Lesotho

By Tosin Omojola –

Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are set to spearhead Nigeria’s attack as the Super Eagles take on the Crocodiles of Lesotho in a must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier this Friday.

The crucial Group C encounter will take place at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa — the adopted home ground of Lesotho — where Coach Eric Chelle and his men will be aiming to reignite Nigeria’s qualification hopes.

The match is the penultimate fixture of the qualifying series, and Nigeria must win — and possibly depend on favourable results elsewhere — to stay in contention before hosting current group leaders Benin Republic in Uyo for the final matchday.

Sitting three points behind Benin Republic and South Africa, the Super Eagles must go all out in their remaining two fixtures, starting with Friday’s neutral-ground clash against Lesotho.

However, Chelle faces selection challenges, with wing-back Olaoluwa Aina ruled out after picking up an injury on the poor pitch at Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein, in last month’s clash with South Africa. Defender Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielder Raphael Onyedika, and forward Cyriel Dessers are also sidelined due to injuries.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is expected to keep his place in goal, with captain William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, and Benjamin Frederick competing for defensive spots.

In midfield, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi, and Christantus Uche are all available for selection.

With Osimhen and Lookman leading the charge, supported by Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, Terem Moffi, and Jerome Akor Adams, the Super Eagles will look to soar past Lesotho and keep their World Cup dream alive.