2026 WCQ: Nigeria Battles Lesotho to Keep Qualification Hopes Alive

All eyes will be on the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in South Africa on Friday as the Super Eagles of Nigeria take on Lesotho’s Crocodiles in a must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

The match is crucial for Nigeria, representing their final chance to stay in contention for a World Cup ticket. After a 1-1 draw with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on September 1, the Super Eagles appeared to be on the verge of missing consecutive World Cup tournaments.

However, their fortunes improved when South Africa were penalised for fielding an ineligible player, causing a reshuffle at the top of Group C. The ruling reduced the gap between Nigeria and group leaders Benin and South Africa to just three points with two matches remaining, reviving hopes of qualification.

A Do-or-Die Encounter

To remain in the race, Nigeria must avoid defeat in both of their remaining fixtures—starting with Friday’s clash against Lesotho—and also hope that South Africa drop points in their matches against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

With several teams still in contention for the top spot, victory in Polokwane is essential for the Super Eagles. Lesotho, who held Nigeria to a 1-1 draw in Uyo on November 16, 2023, will be eager to pull off another upset on home soil.

Since 2019, both sides have met three times, with Nigeria winning twice and one match ending in a draw.

Currently, Benin top Group C with 14 points and a +4 goal difference, followed by South Africa with the same points but a +2 goal difference. Nigeria sit third with 11 points and a +2 goal difference, while Rwanda are fourth with 11 points and a neutral goal difference.

The Super Eagles’ qualification campaign has been marked by inconsistency—two wins, five draws, and one loss—while Lesotho have recorded two victories, three draws, and three defeats.

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Matchday nine kicks off on Friday, October 10, at 6:00 p.m. local time (5:00 p.m. Nigerian time). Fans can watch the match live on DStv’s SuperSport, SportyBet TV, and AfroSport.