By Segun Adeyinka,
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, following a crucial 2-1 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane. Goals from William Troost-Ekong and Jerome Akor Adams helped secure the win, keeping Nigeria in third place in Group C with 14 points, just behind Benin Republic and South Africa.
Chelle acknowledged the pressure his players have been under since March, saying: “Today, we are happy because we got the three points, we are still alive… I’m happy for my players, I want to congratulate them.”
With Benin Republic leading the group and Nigeria set to face them next, Chelle emphasized the importance of staying focused and resilient. The final qualifying matches are shaping up to be intense, and every point will count.
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The breakdown of Nigeria’s path to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after their 2-1 win over Lesotho:
Current Group C Standings
Team Points
Benin Republic 17
South Africa 15
Nigeria 14
Rwanda 10
Lesotho 4
Zimbabwe 3
What Nigeria Needs to Qualify
To secure automatic qualification, Nigeria must beat Benin Republic in their final match and hopes South Africa drops points against Rwanda (a draw or loss)
If South Africa wins, Nigeria could still qualify via a playoff spot, depending on results across other groups. A recent CAF rule change—excluding points earned against bottom-placed teams when comparing second-placed teams—may help Nigeria’s chances due to Eritrea’s withdrawal from Group E.
William Troost-Ekong – scored the opener vs Lesotho
Akor Adams – netted the second goal on debut
Victor Osimhen – expected to lead the attack vs Benin
Coach Eric Chelle is rallying the squad with confidence, saying:
“We are still alive… I’m happy for my players.”
The clash against Benin is shaping up to be a must-win thriller. Want a preview of Benin’s squad or Nigeria’s tactical setup?
