Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Lesotho on Friday night has kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive, though the path to the tournament remains uncertain heading into the final Group C fixtures.

Goals from captain William Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams ensured the Super Eagles claimed all three points in Polokwane, South Africa.

Despite the win, Nigeria’s qualification chances still hang in the balance as they sit third in Group C, trailing Benin Republic by three points and South Africa by one.

The victory offered a lifeline after a stuttering campaign, but the Super Eagles now face a decisive final match that could determine whether they return to the World Cup after missing out on Qatar 2022.

What Nigeria Must Do to Qualify

1. Defeat Benin Republic by at least two goals

Nigeria’s last group game against Benin Republic on Tuesday, October 14, will be crucial. To stay in contention for top spot, the Super Eagles must win convincingly, ideally by two goals or more, since goal difference could play a key role in deciding the group winner.

2. Hope South Africa fail to win against Rwanda

Even with a strong win, Nigeria will need help from elsewhere. They’ll be hoping South Africa drop points, either losing or drawing against Rwanda, in their final fixture. A victory for Bafana Bafana would likely end Nigeria’s hopes of automatic qualification.

With only the group winners guaranteed a direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup and the four best runners-up heading to the playoffs, every goal and every point is now critical.

Friday’s hard-fought win over Lesotho has restored belief among Nigerian fans, but the Super Eagles must combine clinical finishing and composure and hope for a bit of luck if they are to make a long-awaited return to football’s grandest stage.