- Captain Troost-Ekong, debutant Akor Adams score as Nigeria benefits from Group C rival’s slip-up.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a vital 2-1 victory over the Crocodiles of Lesotho on Friday at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, boosting their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The win, which came in a nervy Group C penultimate qualifier, was sealed by goals from captain William Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams.
Match Decisive Moments
The match remained goalless through a first half where the Super Eagles dominated possession but struggled to break down a resilient Lesotho defence.
Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Lesotho defender Motlomelo Mkwanazi was penalized for a handball in the box. Captain William Troost-Ekong stepped up and confidently converted the resulting penalty kick.
Substitute Akor Adams, making his Super Eagles debut after replacing Tolu Arokodare in the 63rd minute, doubled the lead in the 80th minute. Adams capitalized on a shot by Victor Osimhen that struck the post, cutting the ball onto his left foot before firing a stunning finish past the goalkeeper.
Lesotho quickly reduced the deficit in the 83rd minute when Hlompho Kalake netted following a fumble by Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali from a corner kick, setting up a tense finish. Nigeria ultimately held on for the 2-1 victory.
Qualification Race Tightens
The three points were made even more crucial by results elsewhere in Group C. South Africa, who were joint group leaders with Benin Republic, were held to a 0-0 draw by Zimbabwe. Benin Republic, however, defeated Rwanda 1-0.
Nigeria’s victory moves them to 14 points, putting them level with South Africa, and just three points behind leaders Benin Republic in the tight Group C race.
Ahead of the crucial tie, Super Eagles Head Coach Éric Chelle had urged his team to focus, saying: “Football can change in a moment. Mistakes, weather, officiating, anything can happen. But we must control what we can and go all out for the win.”
The Super Eagles must now win their final group match against Benin Republic next week and hope other results go their way to secure the sole automatic ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
