Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered another setback on Friday after South Africa tightened their grip on Group C with a commanding 3-0 victory over Lesotho.
The result means the Super Eagles now have no room for error, as Bafana Bafana move nine points clear at the top of the table.
South Africa Dominates in Bloemfontein
Hugo Broos’s side wasted no time asserting dominance in front of their home fans. Mohau Nkota, the 20-year-old rising star, opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a clinical finish from an Aubrey Modiba cross.
The second half belonged entirely to the hosts:
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Lyle Foster (Burnley) made it 2-0 just after the hour mark.
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Oswin Appollis (Orlando Pirates) struck four minutes later to seal a comprehensive 3-0 win.
Group C Standings After Matchday 6
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South Africa: 16 points (6 matches)
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Nigeria: 7 points (5 matches)
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Others: trailing further behind
What It Means for Nigeria
With South Africa pulling away, Nigeria must now win their remaining fixtures and hope Bafana Bafana drop points to keep qualification hopes alive.
The Super Eagles, who have endured a turbulent qualifying campaign with inconsistent performances, will next face Rwanda in a must-win clash.
Failure to secure maximum points could leave Nigeria’s dream of reaching the 2026 World Cup in USA, Mexico, and Canada hanging by a thread.
