Qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup hangs in the balance within CAF Group C, where Nigeria’s Super Eagles, alongside Benin and South Africa, are fiercely competing for the coveted spot, according to Soccernet.ng.
To secure advancement, Eric Chelle’s squad must overcome Lesotho’s Crocodiles and Benin’s Cheetahs, while also relying on South Africa to falter in their upcoming matches.
The highly anticipated encounter is scheduled for tomorrow at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Pietersburg, South Africa, with kickoff set for 17:00 local time.
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Recap of Nigeria’s Campaign So Far
The Super Eagles’ qualification journey has seen three different head coaches-Jose Peseiro, Finidi George, and currently Eric Chelle-each brought in to steer the team clear of the pitfalls experienced in 2022.
Despite suffering only a single defeat-the fewest in their group-Nigeria has drawn five matches and secured just two wins, reflecting a campaign marked by resilience but also missed opportunities.
Lesotho mirrors Nigeria’s win tally with two victories, notably against South Africa and Zimbabwe. The Crocodiles have also drawn three times, accumulating nine points from eight games.
Historical Encounters Between Nigeria and Lesotho
Over the last six years, Nigeria and Lesotho have clashed thrice. Their most recent meeting was earlier in the World Cup qualifiers on Nigerian soil, under the guidance of Jose Peseiro.
That match concluded in a 1-1 stalemate, with goals from Motlomelo Mkwanazi for Lesotho and Semi Ajayi for Nigeria ensuring a shared point.
Prior to that, the teams faced off in the 2019 and 2021 AFCON qualifiers, where the Super Eagles emerged triumphant with 3-0 and 4-2 victories, respectively.
Strategic Analysis
Nigeria’s Approach
Since adopting a 4-4-2 diamond formation during the 2025 Unity Cup at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, Coach Eric Chelle has consistently utilized this setup, regardless of player selection.
It’s expected that Chelle will make subtle adjustments ahead of the Lesotho match. Typically, Moses Simon operates from the left flank, with Ademola Lookman positioned centrally behind the striker, likely Victor Osimhen.
The full-backs focus on delivering crosses into the penalty area, while the midfield maintains a compact shape to stifle opposing attacks.
However, this system has occasionally left Nigeria’s right side underutilized, a vulnerability exposed in matches against South Africa and during a home draw with Zimbabwe.
Lesotho’s Formation
Lesotho’s coach, Leslie Notši, prefers a 4-3-3 formation when in possession, emphasizing a tight midfield structure when defending. The team often shifts to a five-man defense by dropping a midfielder back to support the defensive line.
Current Form Guide
Heading into Matchday 9 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria holds the third-best recent form in Group C, trailing only South Africa and Benin. Their last five matches include two wins, two draws, and a single loss.
Conversely, Lesotho has struggled, losing three of their last five games, with one victory and a 1-1 draw against Rwanda.
Match Information
- Fixture: Lesotho vs Nigeria
- Location: Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, Pietersburg, South Africa
- Date & Time: Friday, October 10, 16:00 GMT / 17:00 local time
- Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (CAF Group C)
Key Player Absences
Nigeria: Ola Aina (hamstring), Felix Agu (syndesmosis ligament), Bright Osayi-Samuel (foot), Cyriel Dessers (ankle), Fisayo Ayodele-Bashiru (femoral bicep).
Lesotho: No reported injuries.
Projected Starting Elevens
Nigeria (4-4-2): Stanley Nwabali; Benjamin Fredrick, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi; Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi; Ademola Lookman; Moses Simon, Victor Osimhen.
Lesotho (4-3-3): Sekhoane Moerane; Thabang Malane, Thabo Makhele, Siyabonga Monyaka, Fusi Matlabe; Lehlohonolo Matsau, Tsepo Toloane, Tshwarelo Bereng; Jane Thabantso, Katleho Makateng, Sera Motebang.
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