Head Coach Eric Chelle has named his starting lineup as Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Lesotho, with star striker Victor Osimhen set to lead the attack in the decisive encounter.
The starting XI sees Nwabali in goal; Fredrick, Ndidi, Ekong, and Bassey in defence; Onyemaechi, Iwobi, Simon, Lookman, and Arokodare providing support for Osimhen up front.
It is a must-win encounter for Nigeria in the CAF Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifying series.
The Super Eagles currently sit third in the group, three points behind Benin and South Africa, following a string of disappointing results earlier in the campaign.
The AFCON 2023 runners-up had endured a poor start — going winless in their first four matches, including a 2–1 defeat to Benin after three consecutive draws. However, Chelle’s appointment brought renewed hope, highlighted by a 2–0 victory in Rwanda, where Osimhen netted twice to end Nigeria’s winless run.
Since then, the team has drawn 1–1 with both Zimbabwe and South Africa, while also securing another win against Rwanda, keeping their qualification hopes alive.
The reverse fixture in November 2023 ended in a frustrating 1–1 draw, a result that again exposed Nigeria’s lack of cohesion and cutting edge.
Lesotho, meanwhile, have been a resilient side in this qualifying series, recording two wins and three draws from eight games. Still, Nigeria remain favourites, given their array of attacking talent.
Nigeria Lineup vs Lesotho
Stanley Nwabali
Benjamin Fredrick
Wilfred Ndidi
William Troost-Ekong (C)
Bruno Onyemaechi
Alex Iwobi
Tolu Arokodare
Ademola Lookman
Moses Simon
Calvin Bassey
Victor Osimhen
The Super eagles of Nigeria will soar high though it is going to be a decisive Battle with their opponent.