SUPER EAGLES IN HIGH-STAKES CLASH WITH LESOTHO FOR WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION TONIGHT

Nigeria’s Super Eagles face Lesotho in a pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, South Africa. Sitting third in Group C with 11 points after eight matches, Nigeria trails Benin Republic and South Africa, both on 14 points. A recent FIFA ruling stripped South Africa of three points for an ineligible player, giving Nigeria a chance to close the gap. A victory is crucial to reach 17 points by their final match against Benin on October 14, securing a potential World Cup slot or playoff berth. Under coach Eric Chelle, appointed in 2024, the team leans on Victor Osimhen’s scoring prowess, supported by Ademola Lookman and Wilfred Ndidi. Past stumbles, like a 1-1 draw with Lesotho in 2023, expose defensive weaknesses, and Lesotho’s compact defense under Leslie Notsi aims to frustrate again.
The match tests Nigeria’s football revival. A loss could end their World Cup dreams, absent since 2018, and spark Nigeria Football Federation scrutiny. Chelle vowed, “We’re ready to battle.” For fans, it’s a matter of national pride.