By Deborah Nnamdi
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have taken a major step toward qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Lesotho in their Group B qualifier on Friday. The win keeps the three-time African champions firmly in contention for an automatic qualification spot ahead of the decisive final matchday.
The game, played under difficult conditions in Maseru, began on a slow note for Nigeria, who struggled to break down a well-organised Lesotho defence. Despite controlling possession, the Super Eagles found it hard to create clear chances, relying mostly on long balls that failed to trouble the hosts.
Head coach Finidi George started with Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare in attack, flanked by Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi, but the first half ended goalless as the Crocodiles held firm.
Nigeria finally broke the deadlock 10 minutes after the restart when Lesotho defender Motlomelo Mkwanazi handled the ball inside the box. Captain William Troost-Ekong coolly converted the resulting penalty, giving the Super Eagles a crucial lead while Osimhen watched from the bench.
Shortly after, Wilfred Ndidi’s appeals for another penalty were waved away by the referee, much to the frustration of the visitors.
Debutant Akor Adams doubled Nigeria’s advantage late in the second half with a composed finish, slotting past the goalkeeper after a powerful run that marked a memorable first appearance for the Sevilla striker.
Lesotho, however, refused to go down quietly. Substitute Hlompho Kalake pounced on a rare error from goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to pull one back, setting up a nervy finale. Despite sustained pressure from the hosts, Nigeria held on to secure all three points.
The victory ends Lesotho’s qualification hopes and lifts Nigeria to second place in Group B—three points behind leaders Benin Republic and just ahead of South Africa. With one match remaining, the Super Eagles will need another strong performance to seal their ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
The final round of fixtures promises to be decisive, as the race for Group B’s automatic qualification spot goes down to the wire.
