All attention will be on the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in South Africa this Friday as the Super Eagles take on the Crocodiles of Lesotho in what could be Nigeria’s last lifeline in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The Super Eagles’ qualification hopes looked almost over after their 1-1 draw with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in September. But things took a dramatic turn when South Africa were penalised for fielding an ineligible player, losing points that brought Nigeria right back into the race.
With that ruling, the gap at the top of Group C narrowed — leaving Nigeria just three points behind Benin and South Africa with two crucial matches remaining.
A must-win for Nigeria
For the Super Eagles, there’s no room for error. They must win both of their remaining matches, starting with today’s clash against Lesotho. They’ll also need South Africa to stumble in their remaining fixtures against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
With several teams still in contention for the top spot, victory in Polokwane is non-negotiable if Nigeria wants to keep their World Cup dream alive.
Current group standings
Benin currently lead the group with 14 points and a +4 goal difference. South Africa follow closely with 14 points and +2, while Nigeria sit in third with 11 points and +2. Rwanda also have 11 points but with an even goal difference.
Past meetings
Since 2019, Nigeria and Lesotho have faced each other three times — Nigeria have won twice, while one game ended in a draw. Their last meeting in November 2023 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo ended 1-1, a result Lesotho will hope to repeat or even better this time around.
Form so far
Nigeria’s qualifying campaign has been inconsistent, with two wins, five draws, and one loss. Lesotho, on the other hand, have managed two wins, three draws, and three losses.
Read Also;
Algeria qualify for 2026 World Cup with 3-0 win over Somalia
Confidence in camp
Speaking ahead of the match in Polokwane on Thursday, head coach Éric Chelle said the team is determined to start strong and stay focused throughout the game. He acknowledged that football can be unpredictable due to factors like weather, refereeing decisions, or player errors — but stressed that the team’s goal is clear: get all three points.
Match details
The crucial Group C clash kicks off today, Friday, October 10, at 6:00 p.m. local time (5:00 p.m. in Nigeria) at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane.
