Adams Debut Goal Gives Super Eagles Crucial Win Over Lesotho, Keeps World Cup Hopes Alive

Nigeria’s Super Eagles kept their 2026 World Cup dream alive with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lesotho in their ninth Group C qualifier at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane.

The win was sealed thanks to William Troost-Ekong’s second-half penalty and debutant Akor Adams’ first goal for the national team.

The Eagles, needing victories in their last two matches to stay in contention for a World Cup spot, dominated the first half but failed to convert their chances. Coach Eric Chelle deployed a 4-4-2 formation, pairing Victor Osimhen with Tolu Arokodare up front, flanked by Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon. Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi anchored the midfield, while Benjamin Fredrick, Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Bruno Onyeamaechi formed the backline in front of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Nigeria finally broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute after Simon’s shot struck a defender’s arm in the Lesotho box. Ekong calmly converted the resulting penalty. Shortly after, Adams replaced Arokodare and made an instant impact, finishing expertly after receiving a pass from Osimhen.

Lesotho pulled one back late through Hilompho Kalake after Nwabali fumbled a cross, but the Eagles held on for the win.

Elsewhere in Group C, Benin Republic beat Rwanda 1-0, while South Africa drew 0-0 with Zimbabwe. Nigeria remain third with 14 points, behind Benin (17 points) and South Africa (15 points).

The Eagles now face a daunting task against Benin Republic at home on Tuesday, needing a win by at least three goals to secure automatic qualification for the World Cup.

Group C Standings:

1. Benin – 17 pts (+5)

2. South Africa – 15 pts (+3)

3. Nigeria – 14 pts (+3)

4. Rwanda – 11 pts (0)

5. Lesotho – 9 pts (-3)

6. Zimbabwe – 5 pts (-6)