All attention turns to the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, today as the Super Eagles take on the Crocodiles of Lesotho in a decisive encounter that could determine Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Following their 1-1 draw against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in September, Nigeria appeared set to miss a second consecutive World Cup. However, the qualification race was thrown wide open when South Africa were penalized for fielding an ineligible player, reducing the gap between the top three teams in Group C.

The ruling left Nigeria three points behind Benin Republic and South Africa with two matches remaining, giving the Super Eagles a renewed chance to stay in contention.

Crucial Match for the Super Eagles

Nigeria must avoid defeat in both of their remaining fixtures, starting with today’s clash against Lesotho, while also hoping South Africa falter in their upcoming games against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

With several teams still mathematically capable of finishing top, victory in Polokwane is crucial to keeping Nigeria’s qualification hopes alive.

Current Group Standings

Benin lead Group C with 14 points and a +4 goal difference, followed by South Africa with the same 14 points but a +2 difference. Nigeria are third with 11 points and a +2 goal difference, while Rwanda also have 11 points with a neutral goal difference.

Head-to-Head Record

Both sides have met three times since 2019 — Nigeria have won twice, while one match ended in a draw. Lesotho held the Super Eagles to a 1-1 stalemate in the reverse fixture at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, on November 16, 2023, and will aim to pull off another surprise today in Polokwane.

Form Guide

Nigeria’s qualifying campaign has been inconsistent so far, with two wins, five draws, and one defeat. Lesotho, meanwhile, have managed two wins, three draws, and three losses.

Confidence in Camp

Head coach Éric Chelle and his players remain confident ahead of the must-win tie. Speaking at a press conference in Polokwane on Thursday, Chelle emphasized the need for an aggressive start and total concentration throughout the match.

He acknowledged the unpredictable nature of football, noting that factors such as weather conditions, refereeing, and player errors can influence results. Nonetheless, he maintained that the team’s focus is firmly on securing maximum points.

Match Information

Fixture: Lesotho vs Nigeria

Venue: New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane

Date: Friday, October 10, 2025

Kick-off: 6:00 p.m. local time (5:00 p.m. Nigeria time)

Broadcast: DStv SuperSport, SportyBet TV, and AfroSport