Super Eagles Land in South Africa for Crucial World Cup Qualifier Against Lesotho
Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles, has arrived in Polokwane, South Africa, ahead of a critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Lesotho scheduled for Friday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
The squad, led by head coach Eric Chelle, checked into The Ranch Hotel on Monday, with players converging from their respective clubs across Europe and Asia via Johannesburg. The team’s first training session is set for Tuesday morning at the match venue.
Defensive Concerns Mount
The team faces significant defensive challenges as injuries continue to plague key players. Felix Agu, who was called up to replace the withdrawn Bright Osayi-Samuel at right-back, has been ruled out for months following an ankle injury sustained during a weekend match for Werder Bremen. This setback compounds the absence of first-choice right-back Ola Aina, who remains sidelined until December.
Adding to the concerns, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, recently returned from injury, showed signs of vulnerability during Galatasaray’s Istanbul derby, with medical staff closely monitoring his condition ahead of Friday’s match.
Attack Shows Promise
Despite defensive worries, Nigeria’s attacking lineup demonstrates impressive form. Victor Osimhen has shown renewed vigor, scoring against Liverpool in Champions League action and contributing significantly to Galatasaray’s recent performances. New addition Akor Adams has also made his mark, scoring his second goal of the season for Sevilla in a memorable 4-1 victory over Barcelona, assisted by fellow Super Eagle Chidera Ejuke.
Yellow Card Situation
The team faces a delicate situation with 11 players, including Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, and Stanley Nwabali, all one yellow card away from suspension. Any bookings would result in missing the crucial final group game against Benin Republic in Uyo.
Group C Standings
Nigeria currently holds third position in Group C with 11 points, trailing both Benin and South Africa by three points. However, the team’s qualification prospects improved after CAF reversed South Africa’s 2-0 victory over Lesotho due to an ineligible player violation, recording it instead as a 3-0 defeat for South Africa.
As the Super Eagles prepare in Polokwane, Coach Chelle faces the challenge of managing both tactical and psychological aspects of the campaign. With a potent attack but compromised defense, Friday’s match against Lesotho represents a crucial step in Nigeria’s quest to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
