Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a crucial 2–1 victory over Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane to keep their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive.
It was a hard-fought game where captain William Troost-Ekong and substitute Akor Adams delivered the goals that mattered, while Hlompho Kalake’s late strike for Lesotho added drama.
The win moved Nigeria within touching distance of a World Cup spot, with a decisive final match against Benin Republic awaiting.
First Half
The Super Eagles began with confidence, controlling the tempo and pinning Lesotho deep into their half. Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, and Ademola Lookman combined well early on, with Alex Iwobi orchestrating play through midfield. Within ten minutes, Nigeria had registered their first effort on goal, but Lesotho’s goalkeeper Moerane stood firm.
Lesotho were organized defensively and focused on cutting off passing lanes through the middle. Nigeria’s attacks mostly came from the flanks, but final deliveries from Simon and Lookman often lacked accuracy. The hosts rarely ventured forward but maintained a compact shape, frustrating Nigeria as the minutes ticked by.
By the 35th minute, Nigeria had enjoyed over 65% of possession but struggled to break down a resilient Lesotho backline. Iwobi’s long-range shot went wide, while Osimhen’s header was comfortably saved. The first half ended goalless, with Nigeria dominating the ball but failing to create a clear opening.
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Second Half
After the restart, Nigeria increased their tempo and finally found a breakthrough. In the 56th minute, Lesotho’s Motlomelo Mkwanazi handled the ball inside the box, gifting Nigeria a penalty.
Captain William Troost-Ekong stepped up made it 1–0. The goal lifted the team spirits, and they began playing with more freedom.
Coach Eric Chelle made key substitutions, introducing Akor Adams for Tolu Arokodare to add more presence in attack. The change paid off in the 81st minute when Adams connected with a neat pass from Osimhen and slotted home to double Nigeria’s advantage.
Lesotho refused to give up and hit back almost immediately. In the 84th minute, Hlompho Kalake pounced on a defensive error to pull one back for the hosts. The late goal set up a nervy ending, but Nigeria managed to hold on to secure a vital victory that keeps their World Cup hopes alive.
Player Ratings
Nigeria Player Ratings
- Stanley Nwabali (GK) – 4.5/10
- Femi Fredrick (RB) – 6.5/10
- William Troost-Ekong (CB, C) – 8/10
- Calvin Bassey (CB) – 7/10
- Bruno Onyemaechi (LB) – 6.5/10
- Wilfred Ndidi (CM) – 7/10
- Alex Iwobi (CM) – 7/10
- Moses Simon (RW) – 6.5/10
- Ademola Lookman (LW) – 6/10
- Tolu Arokodare (ST) – 6/10
- Victor Osimhen (ST) – 7.5/10
Substitutes:
- Akor Adams – 7/10
- Samuel Chukwueze – 5/10
- Zaidu Sanusi – 5/10
- Semi Ajayi – 5/10
Key Stats
- Possession: Lesotho 37% – Nigeria 63%
- Total Shots: Lesotho 7 – Nigeria 17
- Shots on Target: Lesotho 2 – Nigeria 11
- Corners: Lesotho 2 – Nigeria 5
- Fouls: Lesotho 9 – Nigeria 12
Man of the Match
William Troost-Ekong (8/10) – A true captain’s performance. Scored the opener from the spot, led the defense with composure, and guided his team through tense moments late in the match.
What’s Next
Nigeria will host Benin Republic in their final group-stage match, a must-win game that could determine their qualification fate for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles need a convincing victory and must hope results elsewhere go their way.
