All eyes will be on the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday as the Super Eagles of Nigeria take on the Crocodiles of Lesotho in a decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the global showpiece were hanging by a thread after their 1–1 draw with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on September 6. However, the race was thrown wide open when South Africa were docked points for fielding an ineligible player, narrowing the gap at the top of Group C and giving Nigeria a vital lifeline.
The revised standings leave Nigeria three points behind group leaders Benin and second-placed South Africa, with two matches left to play. To stay in contention, the Super Eagles must win both of their remaining games—starting with Friday’s clash against Lesotho—while also hoping South Africa drop points against Zimbabwe or Rwanda.
Benin currently top Group C with 14 points and a +4 goal difference, followed by South Africa on 14 points with a +2 goal difference. Nigeria sit third with 11 points and a +2 goal difference, while Rwanda trail in fourth with 11 points and a neutral goal difference. With several teams still mathematically able to finish top, every point counts.
Since 2019, Nigeria and Lesotho have met three times, with the Super Eagles winning twice and drawing once. The Crocodiles held Nigeria to a 1–1 draw in Uyo on November 16, 2023, and will be aiming to spring another surprise in Polokwane.
Nigeria’s qualifying campaign has been inconsistent so far, yielding two wins, five draws and one defeat. Lesotho, meanwhile, have registered two wins, three draws and three losses.
Head coach Éric Chelle and several players have voiced optimism ahead of the crucial fixture. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday in Polokwane, Chelle stressed the need for the team to start strongly and stay fully focused for the entire 90 minutes.
“Football can be unpredictable,” Chelle cautioned, noting that factors such as weather, refereeing decisions and individual errors could shape the outcome. “But our focus must be on getting the three points.”
Matchday nine kicks off at 6:00 p.m. local time (5:00 p.m. Nigeria time) at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium. Fans can watch the match live on DStv’s SuperSport, SportyBet TV, and AfroSport.
