Nigeria, under Coach Eric Chelle, currently sit third in Group C with 11 points from eight matches, trailing leaders Benin Republic and South Africa by three points.
Their hopes of qualifying received a boost earlier this week after FIFA deducted three points and three goals from South Africa for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, during their March 2025 fixture against Lesotho.
The last time both sides met — on November 16, 2023, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo — ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving fans eager for revenge this time around.
Team News
Coach Eric Chelle has named a 23-man squad for the final qualifying fixtures, with two late adjustments:
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Zaidu Sanusi replaces Bright Osayi-Samuel at right-back.
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Uche Christantus comes in for Cyriel Dessers in attack.
Captain William Troost-Ekong leads the defense alongside Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Felix Agu, while Stanley Nwabali remains first-choice goalkeeper.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf will anchor the play, while Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Terem Moffi headline the attacking line.
Newcomer Gift Adams and Olakunle Olusegun also make the squad, offering depth in attack.
Opponents’ Outlook
Lesotho, unable to host home games due to stadium standards, will play in Polokwane, South Africa, where they’ll aim to frustrate Nigeria once again.
Meanwhile, other Group C fixtures could determine Nigeria’s fate:
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Benin Republic (coached by former Super Eagles boss Gernot Rohr) face Rwanda in Kigali.
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South Africa host Zimbabwe in Durban.
Match Details
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Fixture: Lesotho vs Nigeria
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Venue: New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, South Africa
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Date: Friday, October 10, 2025
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Kick-off: 6:00 p.m. (South Africa) / 5:00 p.m. (Nigeria)
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Live on: DSTV SuperSport, SportyBet TV, and AfroSport
