Super Eagles beat Lesotho 2–1 to keep World Cup hopes alive

By Tosin Omojola –

Nigeria’s Super Eagles survived a late rally from Lesotho to earn an important 2–1 win in Friday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier.

However, their chances of securing a place at the Mundial next year remain shaky following Benin Republic’s 1–0 win over Rwanda, while South Africa were held to a goalless draw by Zimbabwe.

After a goalless first half at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in South Africa, the Eagles fought their way back into reckoning with two goals, only to allow the Crocodiles reduce the tally late in the game.

Skipper William Troost-Ekong put Nigeria in front after converting a 55th-minute penalty, before Adam Akor, who was making his debut appearance for the Eagles, doubled the lead in the 80th minute, brilliantly slotting home a pass from Victor Osimhen.

The Nigerian side thereafter slowed down and allowed Lesotho to surge forward, making dangerous incursions into their goal area.

One of those forays paid off in the 83rd minute when they reduced the tally after goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali fumbled a corner kick from the Crocodiles.

Lesotho then pounced on the Nigerians, ceaselessly bombarding the Eagles’ defence, and were nearly rewarded when Nwabali again failed to deal with a loose ball in his goal area. However, the onrushing Lesotho striker’s effort agonisingly rolled inches wide, sparing the Eagles’ blushes.

The Super Eagles now need a convincing win over Group C leaders Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday, while hoping South Africa fail to beat Zimbabwe to pick the sole automatic ticket. A victory for South Africa, however, would mean that even a win for Nigeria would only guarantee a second-place finish and a playoff spot.