Troost‑Ekong’s calm penalty + debutant Adams carry Nigeria past resilient Crocodiles
In a pulsating World Cup qualifier played in Polokwane, Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a vital 2‑1 victory over Lesotho on Friday, to keep their 2026 FIFA World Cup dreams alive. From the Nigerian vantage point, this win was more than three points. It was redemption, nerve management, and a statement that the Super Eagles remain dangerous when the stakes are highest.
How the Match Unfolded
The first half was cagey, with both teams probing but failing to break through. Nigeria, with Osimhen and Arokodare leading the line, attempted to stretch the Crocodiles’ defence, but Lesotho remained compact and disciplined.
Just after the hour mark, the tide turned. In the 55th minute, Motlomelo Mkwanazi handled the ball in the box after blocking a shot from Moses Simon. The referee awarded a penalty, and captain William Troost‑Ekong stepped up coolly to dispatch it to the bottom right corner, giving Nigeria the lead.
With momentum on their side, Nigeria pressed for a second. In the 80th minute, substitute Akor Adams made his mark. Victor Osimhen, influential in build-up, set up the move. Adams showed composure beating his marker and firing low into the net to double the lead.
Lesotho refused to lie down. In the 83rd minute, Hlompho Kalake pounced on a rare miscue from Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali during a corner, pulling a goal back and setting up a tense finish.
In the closing minutes, Lesotho threw everything forward. A scramble in Nigeria’s box in stoppage time nearly ended in heartbreak when a shot drifted just wide. But the Eagles held on.
Match Stats
| Metric | Nigeria | Lesotho |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 2 | 1 |
| Scorers | Troost‑Ekong (55’ pen), Akor Adams (80’) | Kalake (83’) |
| Possession | Higher, especially second half | More defensive, countering |
| Penalties awarded | 1 (converted) | 0 |
| Shots on target | Several | Few |
| Corners / set‑piece pressure | Many in final 10 minutes | Earned corner that led to goal |
The Decisive Moment
While Adams’ goal gave Nigeria breathing space, the true pivot was Troost‑Ekong’s calm from the penalty spot. Up to that point, the match was balanced; the handball decision and the captain’s composure tilted momentum irreversibly in Nigeria’s favour. Adams’ finish exploited that shift, but without the penalty, the win would have been far less certain.
What This Means for Both Teams
For Nigeria, this victory is a lifeline. The Super Eagles now have 14 points in Group C, and though they remain behind group leaders, they are firmly in the fight.
For Lesotho, their hopes are extinguished. The Crocodiles showed heart and organization, but the gulf in individual quality; particularly in substitution impact ultimately told. Going into the final group matchday, Nigeria’s fate is still not entirely in their own hands. But they have put pressure on their rivals and shown that they can deliver under duress.
Reaction and What’s Next
Reaction:
Captain Troost‑Ekong’s leadership was widely lauded, both in converting the penalty and marshaling the defense under late siege. The emergence of Akor Adams as a match‑winner in his debut will excite fans and the technical crew. Criticism will linger over Nwabali’s lapse on the corner that allowed Lesotho back in, but contextually, it was a tight finish.
What’s Next:
Nigeria now must prepare for a decisive clash with Benin Republic at home in Uyo. A win there, ideally combined with favourable results elsewhere, can hand Nigeria qualification.
In the larger picture, this result reinforces the notion that Nigeria cannot rely solely on talent. They must build resilience, clutch performance, and depth, especially in high‑pressure qualifiers. If they are to reach the 2026 World Cup, their mettle in these final stages will be tested again. Stay with Hot Sports Scoops for exclusive Nigerian-focused sports coverage — home and abroad