The Super Eagles beat Lesotho to resurrect their dream of World Cup qualification

Nigeria’s Super Eagles on Friday evening, 9 October 2025, rekindled their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by beating hosts Lesotho 2-1.

With two games left in the group stage, Nigeria entered the must-win match sitting third with 11 points, three behind Benin Republic and South Africa, who both had 14 points.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has unleashed a two-man attack in the starting line-up, with Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare up front, supported by creative midfielders Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon.

Stanley Nwabali retained his place in goal, protected by a strong backline featuring Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Fredrick, Ekong and Wilfred Ndidi, who was once again deployed in a deeper defensive role.

Ademola Lookman and Tochukwu Onyemaechi were also named in the starting XI to provide width and pace in transition as Nigeria looked to dominate possession and break down Lesotho’s resilient defence.

The first half ended in barren fashion, but the Eagles took the lead at the break when skipper William Troost-Ekong found the mark from the spot after a Lesotho player touched the ball in the vital area.

Debutant Akor Adam increased the score in the 81st minute after an assist from Osimhen.

Two minutes later, the hosts reduced the score when Hlompho Kalak broke through the defense wall after Nwabali saved the ball near his feet following a corner kick.

Lesotho came close to an equalizer following Nwabali’s errors, but the Eagles survived to claim victory.

They remain third behind Benin, who now have 17 points and South Africa in second place with 15 points.

Everyone’s fate is up in the air until the final whistle on the final day of play. [Add report from News Express]

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