ABUJA, Oct 10 (The African Portal) – Nigeria’s Super Eagles face a must-win clash against Lesotho on Friday as they fight to keep their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive.
The match, which kicks off at 18:00 local time (17:00 Nigeria time) at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, comes with high stakes for both sides.
Nigeria appeared to be on the brink of missing a second straight World Cup after a 1-1 draw with South Africa in September. But their hopes were revived when South Africa were docked points for fielding an ineligible player, narrowing the gap in Group C.
The ruling left Nigeria three points behind leaders Benin and South Africa, with two matches remaining.
Must-win match
The Super Eagles cannot afford to drop points in Polokwane and must also hope South Africa falter in their remaining fixtures against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
Benin lead the group with 14 points and a +4 goal difference, followed by South Africa on 14 points (+2). Nigeria are third on 11 points (+2), level on points with Rwanda, who have a neutral goal difference.
Previous meetings
The two sides have met three times since 2019, with Nigeria winning twice and drawing once. Lesotho held the Super Eagles to a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture in Uyo in November 2023 and will be aiming for another upset.
Patchy form
Nigeria’s qualifying campaign has been inconsistent, with two wins, five draws and one defeat so far. Lesotho have managed two wins, three draws and three losses.
Coach confident
Head coach Éric Chelle said on Thursday that his players must approach the game with aggression and focus, while acknowledging that factors such as weather and refereeing decisions could influence the outcome.
The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport, SportyBet TV and AfroSport.
