Super Eagles face Lesotho in must-win 2026 World Cup qualifier in Polokwane. Nigeria must win and hope South Africa drop points to stay in contention

Super Eagles Lesotho World Cup qualifier hopes hang by a thread as Nigeria take on the Crocodiles of Lesotho at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in South Africa today (Friday, October 10).

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After a disappointing 1-1 draw with South Africa in September, Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup appeared slim.

But a twist in the tale came when FIFA docked South Africa points for fielding an ineligible player — breathing new life into Nigeria’s campaign.

That ruling leaves Nigeria three points behind Benin and South Africa with just two matchdays left.

With everything still to play for in Group C, the Super Eagles know anything less than victory against Lesotho will all but end their qualification hopes.

Speaking ahead of the game in Polokwane, Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle underlined the importance of starting strongly and maintaining total focus.

“Football is unpredictable. Weather, officiating, and even one mistake can change everything,” Chelle warned at Thursday’s press conference. “But we are focused. We must win.”

The Super Eagles sit third in Group C with 11 points and a +2 goal difference — level on points with Rwanda but behind on head-to-head.

Benin lead with 14 points and a +4 goal difference, while South Africa also have 14 points but with a +2 advantage.

Lesotho have proven tricky opponents in recent meetings. In the reverse fixture on 16 November 2023 in Uyo, the Crocodiles held Nigeria to a 1-1 draw.

However, the Super Eagles have the edge overall, with two wins and one draw in their last three meetings.

Nigeria’s qualifying run has been inconsistent — two wins, five draws, and one loss. Lesotho, meanwhile, have two wins, three draws, and three defeats.

While Lesotho are technically out of the qualification race, they’ve shown grit and could yet play spoiler in front of a home crowd.

 Group standings before kick-off:

1. Benin – 14 pts (+4 GD)
2. South Africa – 14 pts (+2 GD)
3. Nigeria – 11 pts (+2 GD)
4. Rwanda – 11 pts (0 GD)
5. Lesotho – 9 pts (-3 GD)
6. Zimbabwe – 5 pts (-5 GD)

Match details

• Fixture: Lesotho vs Nigeria (Matchday 9)
• Venue: New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane
• Date: Friday, 10 October 2025
• Kick-off: 6:00 p.m. local time / 5:00 p.m. Nigeria time
• Broadcast: DStv SuperSport, SportyBet TV, AfroSport

With several teams still in contention, Super Eagles Lesotho World Cup qualifier is one of the defining moments of Group C.

Also read: Super Eagles boost hopes with strong Lesotho arrival

A win today and a stumble by South Africa could catapult Nigeria back into contention heading into the final matchday.