World Cup Qualifiers: Nigeria Edge Lesotho, Benin Stay Top as Group C Heads for Final Day Drama

Nigeria kept their World Cup hopes alive with a nervy 2–1 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane, South Africa, while Benin continued their fairytale run with a late win over Rwanda.

South Africa, meanwhile, were left frustrated after a goalless draw against Zimbabwe, setting up a thrilling final round in Group C.

The Super Eagles were made to work hard for their win against a spirited Lesotho side. After a cagey first half, Nigeria were awarded a penalty early in the second period when Motlomelo Mkhwanazi handled a goal-bound effort from Moses Simon.

Captain William Troost-Ekong stepped up and calmly dispatched the spot kick into the bottom corner.

Nigeria nearly doubled their lead minutes later, with Victor Osimhen and Simon both denied by last ditch defending. Osimhen then struck the post after a dazzling solo run.

Substitute Akor Adams eventually made it 2–0 with a composed finish in the 80th minute, but Lesotho responded immediately. Hlompho Kalake capitalized on a fumble from goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili to pull one back, and the hosts almost snatched a dramatic equalizer in stoppage time when Fusi Matlabe’s effort rolled just wide.

In Durban, South Africa dominated possession against Zimbabwe but failed to convert their chances.

Sipho Mbule forced a save from Washington Arubi in the first half, while Lyle Foster saw his goal-bound shot cleared off the line after rounding the goalkeeper.

Zimbabwe were reduced to ten men in the 64th minute following Knowledge Musona’s dismissal, but Bafana Bafana couldn’t capitalize. Foster hit the post late on, and Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s red card in stoppage time capped a frustrating evening.

Benin took a massive step toward a historic World Cup debut with a 1–0 win over Rwanda in Kigali.

Tosin Aiyegun scored the decisive goal ten minutes from time, tapping in at the back post after a well worked move involving substitute Romaric Amoussou.

The result eliminated Rwanda and kept Benin top of the group heading into the final matchday.

Updated Group C Standings (After Matchday 9)
Team P W D L GF GA GD Points
Benin 9 5 2 2 13 8 +5 17
S/Africa 9 4 3 2 12 9 +3 15
Nigeria 9 3 5 1 11 8 +3 14
Rwanda 9 3 2 4 5 6 −1 11
Lesotho 9 2 3 4 8 12 −4 9
Zimbabwe 9 0 5 4 5 11 −6 5
Note: Final matchday will determine the group winner.

With all teams having played nine matches, Group C is set for a dramatic conclusion. Benin lead the standings, with South Africa two points .

Nigeria sit just behind, three points adrift, and must beat Benin in their final game to have any chance of qualifying. Only the group winner advances directly to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the runner-up may earn a playoff spot.