The Super Eagles of Nigeria are gearing up for their crucial FIFA World Cup qualification game against Lesotho set to take place at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup remain slim but not extinguished after that recent twist in Group C. Eric Chelle’s men, who sit third with just two wins from eight games, were handed a lifeline when South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho in March was overturned due to the ineligibility of Teboho Mokoena.
That ruling revived faint hopes for the three-time African champions, who now trail South Africa and Benin by three points. To stand any chance of snapping up Group C’s ticket, the Super Eagles must win their upcoming game against Lesotho and then Benin while hoping South Africa drop points against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
Team News
The Super Eagles head into this clash bolstered by the return of star striker Victor Osimhen. The Galatasaray forward, who has three goals in qualifying so far, will once again spearhead the Super Eagles’ attack as they seek to keep their hopes alive.
Ademola Lookman is expected to join him in the frontline despite a subdued start to the season with Atalanta, while Moses Simon should also feature from the onset. In the middle of the park, Chelle will be relying on Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka.
The likes of Ola Aina, Felix Agu and Bright Osayi-Samuel miss out through injury, opening the door for Zaidu Sanusi and Bruno Onyemaechi to impress. Meanwhile, newcomers Akor Adams and Ola Olusegun offer fresh attacking options for Chelle’s side.
Predicted lineup
Nwabali; Fredrick, Bassey, Troost-Ekong, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi; Lookman, Osimhen, Simon
The game is slated for Friday, October 10 by 5.00 PM Nigerian time.
