Adams scores on debut against Lesotho to keep Nigeria's World Cup hope alive

The Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated Lesotho 2-1 in their ninth game in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

William Troost-Ekong’s second-half penalty and debut goal for Akor Adams gave Nigeria a crucial victory at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, in South Africa.

The Super Eagles were condemned to win the last two games of the qualifiers to remain in contention for the World Cup ticket.

The team successfully executed the first half of the demand against Lesotho. The Eagles were far superior to their opponents and dominated the match with an uber-attacking line-up.

Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles head coach, opted for a 4-4-2 formation with Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare partnering up front. They are flanked on both sides by Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon. Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi slotted in the midfield. The back four of Benjamin Fredrick, William Trost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyeamaechi sat in front of Stanley Nwabali in goal.

The Super Eagles failed to score in the first half, but a mistake from Lesotho in the second half handed Nigeria an opportunity.

A Simon’s shot struck the arm of a Lesotho defender in their box, and the referee pointed to the spot. Ekong stepped up and calmly slotted the kick past Sekhoane Moerane in goal.

Arokodare then made way for debutant Adam shortly after, and the Sevilla striker made his presence known soon after. He received the ball from Osimhen on the edge of the box. Adams dribbled past a defender before placing a clinical finish into the bottom corner.

The Eagles looked set for a comfortable win until Nwabali fumbled a cross and Hilompho Kalake volleyed the ball in to put one back for Lesotho.

In other group games, Benin Republic defeated Rwanda by a lone goal, and South Africa played to a goalless draw against Zimbabwe.

Nigeria remain third in Group C with 14 points. Benin Republic climbed to the top of the group with 17 points, while South Africa is in second place with 15 points.

The Eagles will face Benin Republic at home on Tuesday, and Nigeria must win the game with at least a three-goal margin to clinch an automatic ticket for the 2026 World Cup.

Group C ranking currently