Nigeria’s Super Eagles boosted their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup to be hosted in North America after securing a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Lesotho on Thursday.
Head coach Eric Chelle fielded a strong lineup featuring the return of Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen and Al-Kholood defender William Troost-Ekong from the Saudi Pro League. The Eagles began brightly, with Moses Simon attempting an early breakthrough in the sixth minute as he tried to cut in from the right flank, but the Crocodiles’ defense stood firm.
Despite dominating possession, Nigeria struggled with precision in their passing, as Lesotho’s defensive setup of five at the back restricted the Eagles’ attackers from finding open spaces to operate effectively.
Osimhen came close to opening the scoring in the 38th minute after beating his marker to connect with a cross from the right. His powerful strike, however, was denied by goalkeeper Sekhoane, who kept Lesotho in the game. The Crocodiles’ resolute defense ensured the first half ended goalless despite Nigeria’s persistent pressure.
The second half saw Nigeria maintain their dominance, and their efforts were rewarded in the 53rd minute when Motlomelo Mkwanazi was penalized for handling the ball while blocking a shot from Simon. Captain William Troost-Ekong stepped up confidently and converted the penalty, sending the ball neatly into the bottom right corner.
Nigeria continued to pile on the pressure and doubled their lead in the 80th minute. Osimhen skillfully found Akor Adamson inside the box, and the forward wasted no time before driving his shot past Sekhoane to make it 2–0.
Lesotho, however, capitalized on a defensive lapse from Nigeria to pull one back. A poorly cleared corner fell kindly to Hlompho Kalake, who unleashed a strike that sailed over goalkeeper Stanlee Nwabali and into the net.
Though the Crocodiles attempted a late surge, the Super Eagles held on to secure all three points, keeping their qualification ambitions firmly alive.
What you should know
Nigeria’s 2–1 win over Lesotho marks a vital step toward qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Goals from William Troost-Ekong and Akor Adamson sealed the victory, while Victor Osimhen’s return added depth to the attack. The Super Eagles remain in strong contention for a World Cup spot.
