The Super Eagles’ hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lesotho on Friday has kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes alive; but qualification is still delicately poised heading into the final round of Group C fixtures.
The Super Eagles were forced to break sweat against Lesotho, with captain William Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams finding the net to secure a much-needed three points.
Despite the win, Nigeria remains in third place in the group, trailing Benin Republic by three points and South Africa by one, as the fight for automatic qualifying to the 2026 World Cup comes down to the wire.
The Super Eagles meet Benin Republic in their final group match on Tuesday, October 14, in a game that might decide their World Cup fate.
Only a convincing win of at least two goals will keep their chances alive, as goal difference may be critical in choosing the group winner.
Nigeria will also require some assistance abroad. South Africa must lose or draw their final match against Rwanda in order for Eric Chelle’s team to win the group.
A South African win would effectively eliminate Nigeria’s chances of automatic qualification.
With only the group winners guaranteed an automatic ticket to the 2026 World Cup and the four best runners-up heading to the playoffs, every goal and point now matters.
The Super Eagles’ narrow win in Lesotho has reignited their belief, but they’ll need precision and luck in the final round to return to football’s biggest stage after missing out on Qatar 2022.
