Nigeria’s Super Eagles kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign alive on Friday evening with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Lesotho at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa.

The match, which began on a cagey note, saw the Nigerian side dominate possession but struggle to penetrate a disciplined Lesotho defense in the opening half. Despite creating several chances, the Super Eagles failed to convert, as the first 45 minutes ended goalless to the frustration of the traveling fans.

The breakthrough came in the 55th minute when team captain William Troost-Ekong confidently converted from the penalty spot after a Lesotho defender handled the ball inside the box. The goal eased the tension and gave Nigeria a much-needed lift as they pushed forward for a second.

However, the Likuena of Lesotho refused to go down without a fight. They stunned the Super Eagles in the 72nd minute with a well-taken equalizer following a defensive mix-up that left goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali exposed.

Nigeria’s resilience paid off in the 80th minute when substitute Jerome Akor Adams, who had only been on the pitch for a few minutes, calmly slotted home from close range after a brilliant assist from Ademola Lookman to restore the lead.

The Super Eagles held on in the closing stages to secure all three points, a result that keeps them firmly in contention in their qualification group.

With the victory, Nigeria now moves up the table as they prepare for their next crucial qualifier against Zimbabwe.

Chelle praised his players for their fighting spirit, acknowledging that while the performance was far from perfect, the result was all that mattered.

“It was a tough match, but the boys showed character,” Chelle said after the game. “We know we have to improve, but winning away from home is always important in qualifiers.”

Nigeria will hope to build on the momentum as they continue their quest for a seventh FIFA World Cup appearance at the 2026 edition to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.