10 Key Takeaways From Nigeria’s Narrow Victory Over Lesotho In World Cup Qualifier

10 Key Takeaways From Nigeria’s Narrow Victory Over Lesotho In World Cup Qualifier

By Niyi Busari 

Super Eagles secured a narrow 2-1 win over Lesotho in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match. While the result was positive, BSN Sports noticed that the performance raised several concerns and talking points as the team prepares for its final group-stage fixture against Benin Republic.

 Here are ten key observations from the encounter:

1. Ademola Lookman Suspended for Benin Republic Clash

Nigeria will be without star forward Ademola Lookman for their next qualifier against Benin Republic. The 2024 African Player of the Year picked up a second consecutive yellow card, triggering an automatic suspension. His absence could prove significant given his influence in recent matches.

2. Akor Adams Making His Case for a Permanent Spot

Akor Adams continues to build his reputation, following up his goal against Barcelona with a debut strike for the national team. The Sevilla striker made an immediate impact after coming off the bench and is fast emerging as a serious contender for a regular place in Nigeria’s attacking setup.

3. Nigeria’s Finishing Continues to Frustrate

Despite dominating possession, the Super Eagles struggled once again to convert chances. The forwards appeared isolated and indecisive in front of goal, and the overall lack of urgency in the final third remains a worrying pattern for head coach Eric Chelle 

4. Midfield Creativity Lacking

The absence of a natural playmaker was evident. Nigeria’s midfield was largely pedestrian, with little vertical penetration or line-breaking passes. This made it easy for Lesotho to defend in numbers and absorb pressure without conceding too many clear chances.

5. Tactical Hesitancy from the Bench

Modern football demands proactive coaching, yet Nigeria's technical crew appeared slow to react tactically. With evident issues in the opening half-hour, earlier substitutions or system tweaks could have provided much-needed momentum.

6. Defensive Coordination Under Scrutiny

While Nigeria escaped with the win, defensive frailties were again exposed. William Troost-Ekong, despite scoring from the penalty spot, looked shaky in open play. Lesotho’s goal highlighted lapses in communication and positioning—issues that must be addressed before facing tougher opponents.

7. Stanley Nwabali’s Performance Raises Questions

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had an off-day. His poor handling led to Lesotho’s only goal and reflected a lack of sharpness. While he has also not so impressed in past fixtures, the absence of serious competition for the number one shirt may be contributing to a dip in performance.

8. Attack Lacked Cohesion

Nigeria’s frontline looked disjointed for large spells. Individual brilliance occasionally shone through, but the collective movement and chemistry were lacking. Wingers and strikers failed to combine effectively, making it easier for Lesotho to contain them.

9. Mental and Tactical Discipline Still a Concern

After going two goals up, the Super Eagles lost focus and rhythm, allowing Lesotho back into the game. This recurring issue of complacency and lapses in concentration in tight matches could cost Nigeria dearly against stronger opponents.

10. Nigeria’s World Cup Qualification Path: What Needs to Happen

To qualify automatically for the 2026 FIFA World Cup from Group C, Nigeria must defeat Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday by a convincing margin. However, even a win might not be enough. The Super Eagles will also need South Africa to drop points against Rwanda to top the group.