Nigeria’s Super Eagles boosted their chances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a 2-1 victory on Friday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. The crucial win keeps Nigeria in contention for a 2026 FIFA World Cup spot and the top position in Group C.
Captain William Troost-Ekong gave Nigeria an early lead, converting a penalty after a Lesotho handball to spark loud celebrations from the Abuja crowd.
Akor Adams doubled the advantage with a calm finish, putting the Eagles firmly in control. Lesotho’s Kalake pulled one back, but Nigeria held their ground to secure all three points and maintain pressure on their group rivals.
Benin now lead Group C with 17 points, followed by South Africa on 15, while Nigeria sit third with 14.
With one game left, the Super Eagles must win their final match and hope Benin or South Africa drop points. Nigeria also trail both teams in goal difference, with Benin at +5 and South Africa at +3. Improving their scoring margin could prove crucial if the race ends in a tie.
A convincing final-day performance might push Nigeria to the top and seal automatic qualification.
For Lesotho, the defeat ended nearly all hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup. With nine points from five matches, they now rely on an unlikely combination of results to stay in contention.
