Super Eagles of Nigeros , on Friday, roared back into contention for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging hosts Lesotho 2–1 in a pulsating qualifier that reignited national hopes and silenced critics.
With just two games left in the group stage, the Eagles had entered the must-win clash sitting third on 11 points — trailing Benin Republic and South Africa, who were locked on 14 points apiece.
Pressure was sky-high, but the Nigerian side rose to the occasion. Head coach Eric Chelle rolled the dice with an aggressive setup, deploying a twin-strike force of Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare, both spearheaded by the creative ingenuity of Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon in the midfield.m
Shot-stopper Stanley Nwabali retained his gloves between the posts, shielded by a resolute backline comprising Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Fredrick, William Troost-Ekong, and Wilfred Ndidi, who once again operated in a deeper, anchoring role to steady the defence.
For pace and penetration, Ademola Lookman and Tochukwu Onyemaechi were drafted wide, ensuring width and speed in transition as Nigeria sought to boss possession and dismantle the disciplined Lesotho setup.
The first half ended goalless despite Nigeria’s dominance, but the breakthrough came swiftly after the second half . Skipper William Troost-Ekong broke the deadlock from the spot after a Lesotho defender handled the ball inside the box, sending the visiting fans into raptures.
Rising star Akor Adams doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 81st minute, pouncing on an inch-perfect assist from Osimhen to mark his debut in style.
Barely two minutes later, however, Lesotho clawed one back when Hlompho Kalak capitalised on a defensive error, lofting the ball beyond Nwabali after the goalkeeper had parried a corner into danger.
The hosts pressed hard for an equaliser, exploiting Nwabali’s nervous moments, but the Eagles dug deep to protect their slender lead until the final whistle.
Despite the nervy ending, Nigeria’s victory keeps them firmly in the qualification race — still third on 14 points, trailing Benin Republic on 17 and South Africa on 15 — but with momentum and belief finally back in flight.
