By Amofokhai Williams
The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Lesotho in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier on Friday, keeping their hopes of reaching the global showpiece firmly alive.
The match, held at a lively venue in Maseru, was a tense affair that saw the Super Eagles overcome a spirited Lesotho side in the ninth round of the African qualifiers.
After a goalless first half in which both teams struggled to convert chances, the Super Eagles broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when William Troost-Ekong calmly converted from the penalty spot to give the visitors a 1–0 lead.
Substitute Ademola Lookman injected fresh energy into Nigeria’s attack, creating problems for the hosts down the left flank. His influence paid off in the 80th minute when Adams Akor doubled the lead, finishing off a clever assist from Victor Osimhen.
Lesotho, however, refused to surrender. Just three minutes later, Hlompho Kalake capitalised on a defensive lapse to pull one back for the home side, setting up a nervy finale.
Despite late pressure from Lesotho, the Super Eagles held firm through disciplined defending.
