The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to clash with Lesotho's Crocodiles in a crucial match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The game, slated for Friday, October 10, 2025, at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, is a must-win for Nigeria to keep their qualification hopes alive. Kick-off is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. local time (5:00 p.m. Nigeria time).
Nigeria's path to the World Cup has been rocky, marked by inconsistent performances. After a 1-1 draw against South Africa, their chances appeared slim. However, FIFA's decision to dock South Africa points for fielding an ineligible player reshaped Group C, offering Nigeria a lifeline.
Currently, Benin Republic and South Africa lead the group with 14 points each. Nigeria trails with 11 points, followed closely by Rwanda, also with 11 points. With only two matches remaining, Nigeria needs maximum points and favorable results from other games to secure a spot in the World Cup.
The Super Eagles' coach, Eric Chelle, faces challenges with several key players unavailable due to injury, including Olaoluwa Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Raphael Onyedika, and Cyriel Dessers. However, the return of Victor Osimhen from injury provides a significant boost. Osimhen is expected to lead the attack alongside Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon.
Lesotho, despite being second-bottom in the group, has proven to be a tough opponent. In their previous encounter on November 16, 2023, they held Nigeria to a 1-1 draw. The Super Eagles must avoid defeat against Lesotho, as a loss would effectively end their World Cup dreams. A convincing win is crucial to keep them in contention for the final game against Benin Republic.
The stakes are high for Nigeria, as failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup would be a major setback. The team is under pressure to deliver a strong performance and secure the necessary points to advance. The match will be broadcasted live on DStv's SuperSport, SportyBet TV, and AfroSport. Fans worldwide will be watching to see if the Super Eagles can keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Adding to the complexity, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is considering removing points earned against the bottom-placed team in each group to maintain fairness due to Eritrea's withdrawal, which left Group E with only five teams. This adjustment could potentially benefit Nigeria, depending on the outcomes of other matches.
