All eyes will be on the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, this Friday as Nigeria’s Super Eagles take on Lesotho’s Crocodiles in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The match represents Nigeria’s last realistic chance to stay in contention for a World Cup spot. After a 1-1 draw with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on September 1, the Super Eagles’ hopes looked slim — until South Africa was docked points for fielding an ineligible player. That twist tightened the race in Group C, leaving Nigeria just three points behind leaders Benin and South Africa, with two games remaining.
Nigeria must avoid defeat in both remaining matches, starting with Friday’s fixture against Lesotho. They’ll also need South Africa to slip up in their upcoming matches against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
Victory in Polokwane is critical to keep Nigeria’s qualification hopes alive. Lesotho, however, won’t be easy opponents. The Crocodiles held Nigeria to a 1-1 draw in Uyo on November 16, 2023, and will be aiming for another upset. The two sides have met three times since 2019, with Nigeria winning twice and one draw.
Heading into Matchday 9, Benin lead Group C with 14 points and a goal difference of +4. South Africa also sit on 14 points but have a goal difference of +2. Nigeria trail in third with 11 points and the same +2 goal difference, while Rwanda are close behind, also with 11 points but a goal difference of zero.
Nigeria’s qualifying campaign has been inconsistent, with two wins, five draws, and one loss. Lesotho have recorded two wins, three draws, and three defeats.
Matchday 9 kicks off on Friday, October 10, at 6:00 p.m. local time (5:00 p.m. in Nigeria). Supporters can catch the action live on SuperSport (DStv), SportyBet TV, and AfroSport.
