Lesotho vs Nigeria: Super Eagles Set for Crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will face Lesotho in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa. The match, scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Nigerian time, is one of the deciding fixtures that could determine Nigeria’s chances of making it to the global showpiece.

Nigeria’s Squad for the Encounter

Head coach Finidi George has released a 23-man squad for the clash. Goalkeepers on the list include Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, and Adebayo Adeleye.

In defence, the coach will rely on Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, and Calvin Bassey.

The midfield is anchored by experienced players such as Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf.

The attack line is spearheaded by Victor Osimhen, with support from Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, and Olakunle Olusegun.

Head-to-Head Record

Nigeria holds a dominant record over Lesotho, winning four of their last five encounters. Their most recent clash ended in a 1-1 draw in November 2023 during the World Cup qualifiers.

• Oct 2006: Lesotho 0–1 Nigeria (AFCON Qualifiers)

• Sep 2007: Nigeria 2–0 Lesotho (AFCON Qualifiers)

• Nov 2019: Lesotho 2–4 Nigeria (AFCON Qualifiers)

• Mar 2021: Nigeria 3–0 Lesotho (AFCON Qualifiers)

• Nov 2023: Nigeria 1–1 Lesotho (World Cup Qualifiers)

This record puts the Super Eagles as favorites, but their inconsistent performances in recent qualifiers have left fans cautious.

Group Standings and Qualification Battle

Nigeria currently sits third in the group, behind Benin Republic and South Africa. With only two matches left to play, the Super Eagles must secure maximum points against Lesotho and Benin to keep their qualification hopes alive.

South Africa, who had initially topped the group, were docked four points by FIFA for fielding an ineligible player, dropping them to second behind Benin on goal difference. However, Bafana Bafana remain strong contenders with upcoming matches against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

The remaining fixtures in the group are as follows:

• October 10: Lesotho vs Nigeria (Polokwane)

• October 10: Zimbabwe vs South Africa (Durban)

• October 13: Lesotho vs Zimbabwe (Polokwane)

• October 14: South Africa vs Rwanda (Mbombela)

• October 14: Nigeria vs Benin (Uyo, Nigeria)

The Stakes for Nigeria

The Super Eagles’ path to the World Cup is now a tight race. Their failure to beat Lesotho at home in 2023 and dropping points against Zimbabwe have made the group more competitive.

A victory in Polokwane would not only restore confidence but also keep Nigeria in contention for a World Cup ticket. Anything less could put their hopes at serious risk, with qualification possibly decided on goal difference or other results in the group.

The clash against Lesotho is expected to test Nigeria’s resilience, determination, and ability to deliver under pressure. Fans across the country will be watching closely, hoping the Super Eagles rise to the occasion.