Adams Scores On Debut As Super Eagles Defeat Lesotho 2–1

Debutant Akor Adams scored a decisive goal to hand Nigeria a 2–1 victory over Lesotho in their ninth 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match, keeping the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes alive.
The match, played at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, saw William Troost-Ekong open the scoring from the penalty spot before Adams sealed the win with a superb solo effort.
The result ensured Nigeria remained in contention in Group C, with two crucial games left to secure a World Cup ticket.
Match Overview
Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle deployed an attacking 4-4-2 formation with Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare leading the front line, supported by Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon on the flanks. Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi controlled the midfield, while Benjamin Fredrick, Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Bruno Onyeamaechi protected goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
The first half ended goalless despite Nigeria’s dominance. The breakthrough came early in the second half when Simon’s shot struck a Lesotho defender’s arm inside the box. Ekong converted the resulting penalty with composure.
Minutes later, Arokodare made way for Sevilla striker Akor Adams, who marked his debut with flair. Receiving a pass from Osimhen, Adams dribbled past a defender and slotted home a precise finish into the bottom corner to double Nigeria’s lead.
Lesotho, however, capitalised on a late error from Nwabali, as Hilompho Kalake volleyed home to make it 2–1. Despite the setback, Nigeria held on to claim all three points.
Other Group C Results
Elsewhere, Benin Republic defeated Rwanda 1–0, while South Africa and Zimbabwe played out a goalless draw.
With these results, Nigeria sit third in Group C with 14 points, behind Benin (17 points) and South Africa (15 points). Rwanda (11 points), Lesotho (9 points), and Zimbabwe (5 points) complete the standings.
Next Fixture
The Super Eagles will host Benin Republic on Tuesday, needing a victory by at least three goals to secure an automatic qualification slot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Current Group C Table:
1️⃣ Benin – 17 pts (+5)
2️⃣ South Africa – 15 pts (+3)
3️⃣ Nigeria – 14 pts (+3)
4️⃣ Rwanda – 11 pts (0)
5️⃣ Lesotho – 9 pts (–3)
6️⃣ Zimbabwe – 5 pts (–6)