2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier: Eagles go all out for crucial three points against Lesotho

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are set for a high-stakes showdown against the Crocodiles of Lesotho on Friday evening, as the race for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies.

Africa’s standout talents over the past two years, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, will spearhead the attack at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa.

This penultimate qualifier is a must win for Nigeria, who trail Group C leaders Benin Republic and second placed South Africa by three points.

With just two matches left, the Eagles must secure maximum points against Lesotho and hope for favorable results elsewhere before hosting Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Head coach Eric Chelle faces a few injury setbacks, with Olaoluwa Aina sidelined after picking up a knock on a poor pitch in Bloemfontein during the clash with South Africa.

Bright Osayi-Samuel, Raphael Onyedika, and Cyriel Dessers are also unavailable due to injuries.

However, Chelle welcomes back Osimhen, who missed the last outing due to injury, and reunites the dynamic trio that lit up the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations viz Osimhen, Lookman, and Simon Moses.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is expected to retain his spot between the posts, while defensive options include captain William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, and Benjamin Frederick.

In midfield, Chelle has a strong pool to choose from: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi, and Christantus Uche.

The attacking lineup is equally potent, with Osimhen, Lookman, and Moses leading the charge, supported by in form forwards Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, Terem Moffi, and Jerome Akor Adams.