The Super Eagles of Nigeria kept their World Cup qualification hopes alive by defeating the Crocodiles of Lesotho 2-1 at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa on Friday, October 10.

Nigeria were already condemned to missing the 2026 World Cup after September’s international break; however, South Africa being docked points for fielding an ineligible player effectively reinstated Nigeria into contention for the lone automatic qualification spot in Group C, making the game against Lesotho a must-win.

Having been held to a 1-1 draw by the Crocodiles when the qualification series started in November 2023, the expectations in the Super Eagles weren’t entirely solid, despite the timely boost of Victor Osimhen’s return. Supported by last break’s goalscorer Tolu Arokodare upfront, the Super Eagles maintained control of the opening stages, keeping the ball and dictating the tempo, though without creating many chances to separate themselves from the hosts in the first period.

However, the AFCON 2023 runners-up broke the deadlock about 10 minutes into the second half courtesy of a spot kick from the much-criticised William Troost-Ekong. With further urgency from the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle introduced attacking reinforcements in Samuel Chukwueze and debutant Akor Adams for Ademola Lookman and Tolu Arokodare. The tactical rejig proved effective when Osimhen set up the onrushing Adams, who calmly outwitted his marker to double Nigeria’s lead with his first goal in his first appearance.

The hosts pulled one back in the 83rd minute after Stanley Nwabali fumbled a corner and almost completed a comeback from a similar error by the Nigerian goalkeeper minutes later. However, a stroke of luck and resilient defending ensured Nigeria carted away all three points, ahead of their return to action on Tuesday, October 13, when they’ll face South Africa for the completion of the qualification puzzle