In a tense qualifying showdown in Polokwane, Nigeria’s Super Eagles edged past Lesotho 2–1 to reignite their campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. William Troost Ekong opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the first half, and Akor Adams doubled the lead in the second. Though Lesotho pulled one back late, Nigeria held on for the vital victory. 

Coach Eric Chelle had reportedly deployed an attacking lineup with four forwards, a bold move in a must win fixture.  With only one match remaining in Group C, the Super Eagles must now rely on favorable results elsewhere, as well as a win in their final fixture to clinch qualification.