Super Eagles Defeat Lesotho 2–1, Keep World Cup Dream Alive

Nigeria’s Super Eagles revived their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after securing a 2–1 victory over Lesotho in their Group B qualifier, keeping their campaign alive ahead of the decisive final round of matches.

Played under tough conditions for the visitors, the match saw Nigeria struggle to impose their rhythm in the early stages. The Super Eagles found it difficult to break through Lesotho’s compact defence, with the first half ending goalless despite the attacking presence of Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare, supported by Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi from the flanks.

The breakthrough came ten minutes after the restart when Lesotho’s Motlomelo Mkwanazi handled the ball inside the penalty box. Team captain William Troost-Ekong confidently converted the resulting penalty to put Nigeria ahead, even as Osimhen remained on the bench. Moments later, the referee waved off appeals for another penalty after Wilfred Ndidi was brought down in the area.

Debutant Akor Adams, earning his first international cap, doubled Nigeria’s advantage late in the second half. The Sevilla striker displayed composure, beating his marker before slotting the ball past the Lesotho goalkeeper to make it 2–0.

Lesotho, however, refused to go down quietly. Hlompho Kalake capitalised on a rare defensive error by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to pull one back for the hosts, setting up a nervy finale. Despite sustained pressure from the Crocodiles, Nigeria held firm to claim all three points.

The win effectively ends Lesotho’s qualification hopes but boosts Nigeria’s chances of securing an automatic World Cup ticket. The Super Eagles now sit three points behind group leaders Benin and ahead of South Africa, setting the stage for a decisive final showdown that will determine who qualifies from Group B.

Nigeria will now look to finish strongly in their final fixture as they aim to seal a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.