Super Eagles Edge Past Crocodiles in Tough Away Encounter
Nigeria boosted their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lesotho in Maseru. Captain William Troost-Ekong opened the scoring from the penalty spot midway through the first half after a foul on Ademola Lookman. Akor Adams doubled the lead shortly after the break, finishing off a swift counterattack to give the Super Eagles control of the game. Lesotho reduced the deficit through Hlompho Kalake in the 83rd minute, setting up a tense finale, but Nigeria held firm to secure three vital points.
Qualification Race Still Open in Group C
The result keeps Nigeria’s hopes alive in the CAF Group C qualifiers, where only the top team qualifies directly for the 2026 World Cup. Following the win, the Super Eagles moved up the standings but remain in a tight battle with Benin and South Africa. A recent FIFA ruling deducting three points from South Africa for fielding an ineligible player has reopened the race, giving Nigeria a renewed chance to advance. However, they will likely need to win their remaining matches and rely on favorable results elsewhere to clinch top spot.
Pressure Mounts Ahead of Final Fixtures
Head coach Finidi George praised his players’ resilience but admitted that the team must improve to secure qualification. “We showed character today, but we can’t afford to relax,” he said in his post-match interview. The Super Eagles will next face Benin in what could be a decisive encounter for their World Cup ambitions. With the margins razor-thin and the group delicately poised, Nigeria’s fate may come down to the final whistle of their last qualifying game.
