From our Sports desk, Benin
The Super Eagles has revived her qualification hope for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after beating Lesotho 2-1 on Friday, 10 October, 2025 in one of the matches that holds the ace for Nigeria’s campaign, in Polokwane, South Africa.
Troost Ekong who ruined the team against South Africa in their last game scoring own goal, converted a penalty in the 55th minute after an opposing player handled the ball in the 18 yard box.
A new entrant into the Super Eagles, Akor Adams in the 80th
minute off Victor Osihmen’s assist in the edge of the 18 yard box, increased the tally for the much desired renewed hope of qualification, registering a clinical finish putting Nigeria in control of the game until the 83rd minute.
Going forward, Lesotho cancelled a goal out of the 2 -0 deficit in the 83rd minute via Kalake who lashed on a loose ball from the keeper, Stanley Nwabali but the Eagles held firm to secure the vital three points.
Meanwhile, Benin Republic coached by former gaffer of the Super Eagles, Gernot Rohr scrapped past Rwanda in a 1 – O victory.
With the outcome of today’s games, the Eagles’ fate is not entirely in their hands, as the team faces the uphill task of beating the Cheetahs of Benin Republic with as many goals as possible on Tuesday in their last qualifying game in Uyo, Nigeria.
With Nigeria on 14 points, sitting third, South Africa in the second position with 15 points after a draw game against Zimbabwe, and Benin now with 17 points topping the group C table, the Eagles still have several pathways to automatic qualification:
The first pathway is to win the final match against Benin Republic. A victory is essential for the team to stay in contention.
The second pathway is for the Super Eagles to hope for a slip-up. Benin Republic and South Africa must drop points in their last fixtures.
The third pathway is to improve the goal difference. Nigeria trail Benin and South Africa, so scoring more goals and keeping a clean sheet could be decisive if teams finish level on points.
A final-day showdown could also be crucial. A strong performance in the last round could see Nigeria overtake the leaders, Benin Republic and secure the top spot.
For Lesotho, the defeat is a harsh blow, effectively ending their hopes of qualifying from the group.
With nine points from five matches, they now need an almost impossible combination of results to stay in contention.
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