The Super Eagles of Nigeria earned a 2-1 victory over Lesotho as South Africa played out a disappointing draw against Zimbabwe in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Friday.
Eric Chelle opted for an all-attacking set up in the encounter with four attackers tasked with providing support for Victor Osimhen.
Captain William Troost-Ekong returned to the line up to partner Calvin Bassey in the heart of defence with Bruno Onyemaechi, and Benjamin Frederick completing the cast at the back.
Moses Simon was handed a midfield role alongside Wilfred Ndidi, and Alex Iwobi.
Tolu Arokodare, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Osimhen were given the licence to provide the goals.
Lesotho frustrated the Super Eagles with a solid defensive performance in the first half, Arokodare was presented with the best chance in the closing moments but his header went agonisingly off target.
Osimhen missed a glorious chance to open the scoring for the Super Eagles five minutes after the restart.
Ten minutes later, William Troost-Ekong scored from the penalty spot after Lesotho defender Mkwanazi handled the ball in the 18-yard box to make it 1-0 in favour of Nigeria.
Alex Iwobi, and Wilfred Ndidi came close to adding the second goal but the Lesotho goalkeeper was equal to the task.
Sevilla’s rave of the moment, Akor Adams replaced Tolu Arokodare in the 63rd minute.
He scored the second goal in the 80th minute after Osimhen’s effort hit the bar, Adams produced a stunning finish to score on his Super Eagles debut.
Kalake reduced the deficit for Lesotho after Nwabali fumbled in a corner to make it 2-1 for the hosts.
The Super Eagles held on to seal a vital victory in the World Cup race.
In the other Group C matches, South Africa played out a 0-0 against Zimbabwe while Benin Republic recorded a 1-0 victory over Rwanda to boost their chances of sealing the sole ticket in the group.
Thanks to the victory Benin Republic now have 17 points, two clear of South Africa, who can boast of 15 points.
The win extended Nigeria’s tally to 14 points ahead of the last game against Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday.
South Africa will take on Rwanda at home on the same day.
Leave a Comment