By Olatunbosun Obafemi
Nigeria’s chances of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup took another major hit on Tuesday night after a frustrating round of qualifying matches in Group C.
The Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in Bloemfontein, a result that briefly lifted them to second place. But the joy was short-lived. Hours later, Benin Republic dismantled Lesotho 4-0 in Cotonou, reclaiming the second spot and pushing Nigeria down to third with just two games left.
South Africa now sit top of the group with 17 points, followed by Benin on 14. Nigeria and Rwanda are level on 11, leaving the Super Eagles in a perilous position. Only the group winners qualify automatically, while four of the best runners-up across Africa’s pools could still sneak in.
Despite the setback, former Super Eagles midfielder Friday Ekpo insists all hope is not lost. The 1992 AFCON bronze medalist urged Nigerians to remain optimistic.
“The Super Eagles’ hope of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup is not over yet,” Ekpo said. “The most important thing at the moment is for the team to win their remaining two games and hope other countries from other groups fail to get higher points. Until the final game, I am still optimistic Nigeria can qualify.”
That optimism comes against daunting odds. Benin, led by ex-Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr, looked ruthless in their victory over Lesotho. Brest striker Steve Mounié punished a defensive lapse for the opener and set up Andreas Hountondji for 2-0 inside half an hour. Hassane Imourane’s deflected effort made it three before halftime, while Junior Olaitan added a fourth with a header in the 66th minute.
The one-sided affair was only delayed briefly by a power outage at the stadium — but once underway, the Cheetahs showed no mercy, strengthening their bid for a first-ever World Cup ticket.
For Nigeria, the challenge is stark. To keep their hopes alive, the Super Eagles must beat Rwanda and Benin in October, while also relying on results elsewhere. Anything short of six points could see them miss consecutive World Cups for the first time since their debut in 1994.
