Ekong and Akor hit the mark as Super Eagles beat Lesotho, South Africa falters against Zimbabwe

Nigeria’s senior team maintained their hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup with a nervy 2-1 away victory over Lesotho, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.

Nigeria took the lead in the match when William Troost-Ekong converted from the penalty spot to put Nigeria ahead in the second half following a handball incident.

Substitute Jerome Akor scored on his debut to give Nigeria a 2–0 lead, but a mix-up in the Nigerian box between goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and Wilfred Ndidi in an attempt to clear a corner kick gave Lesotho the chance to score.

Nigeria pushed and worked hard to maintain the victory, which means they go into Tuesday’s match against Benin Republic, which is the last of the series, hoping to get a win and that the result will go their way.

In the other group matches, South Africa drew 0-0 against Zimbabwe, ceding the group initiative to Benin Republic, who beat Rwanda 1-0.

Benin Republic now lead the group with two points heading into the final group match, where they will face Nigeria in Uyo.