Nigeria's journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification has entered a critical phase, marked by fine margins, fierce urgency, and the need for strategic victories. The Super Eagles are set to face Lesotho's Crocodiles in a must-win fixture at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday at 5:00 PM WAT. This game carries the immense weight of a nation’s expectation, and for Nigeria, it’s not just about securing a win, but winning decisively to bolster their goal difference and overall standing.

The Super Eagles' qualification fate hangs in the balance within Group C. Following a confirmed points deduction for South Africa, Benin now surprisingly sits atop the group. Nigeria, therefore, enters this match with a glimmer of hope, requiring wins in their remaining fixtures and hoping that Bafana Bafana drop points in their games against Zimbabwe and Rwanda. The memory of a frustrating 1-1 stalemate in the reverse fixture against Lesotho in Nigeria serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly easier opponents can pose significant challenges. This upcoming match is their penultimate game in the qualifiers.

Head coach Eric Chelle has most of his key players available for this crucial encounter, with notable exceptions being Ola Aina, who is recovering from an injury, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, who is also unavailable. Zaidu Sanusi's late arrival in camp further highlights the defensive challenges. Chelle is expected to deploy a 4-4-2 formation, aiming for a solid and cohesive unit to achieve the desired result.

The offensive firepower of the Super Eagles will be pivotal. Victor Osimhen, Nigeria's second all-time top scorer, remains the emotional engine of the team. His fierce passion and unyielding hunger, coupled with his knack for converting half-chances into crucial goals, make him indispensable. Chelle’s tactical approach must revolve around providing Osimhen with optimal service, utilizing fast wingers and midfielders to create space and opportunities. Alongside him, Akor Adams, fresh off a strong run of form at Sevilla with a last-minute winner against Rayo Vallecano and a goal against Barcelona, brings a surge of confidence. Adams is a strong, quick, and direct striker who thrives in the box, potentially forming a formidable partnership with Osimhen that could overwhelm Lesotho's defense.

On the flanks, Samuel Chukwueze is expected to be a key figure. Known for his electric pace, dazzling feet, and ability to slice through defenses, the AC Milan man (currently on loan at Fulham) can be an unpredictable magician on his day. His recent performances, particularly against Rwanda and Jamaica, where he twisted defenders and capped a display with a delightful goal, underscore his potential to conjure magic from nothing – be it a solo run, a curling finish, or a defence-splitting assist.

In the midfield, Alex Iwobi serves as the team's creative compass and conductor. The Fulham midfielder has been in excellent club form, demonstrating elegance in possession, smart distribution, and tireless pressing. Iwobi's role is crucial in linking midfield to attack, dictating the game's tempo, and ensuring that attackers like Osimhen and Chukwueze receive the ball in dangerous areas, especially against a compact Lesotho side expected to defend deep. Complementing him is Wilfred Ndidi, a pivotal figure in Nigeria's midfield for nearly a decade, now focused on securing victory against Lesotho before the subsequent clash with Benin.

Defensively, the Super Eagles face concerns with several regular full-backs unavailable. This situation elevates the importance of Calvin Bassey. The Fulham defender has emerged as one of the Premier League's most dependable centre-backs, combining raw strength with composure and an improving reading of the game. Bassey's leadership will be vital in organizing the backline and maintaining focus against potential counterattacks, ensuring the rear guard remains solid to allow the attackers to roam freely. Captain William Troost-Ekong also expressed optimism, emphasizing the team's belief until the very end and high spirits despite the pressure.

The Super Eagles are focused and determined, with players like Ndidi and Bassey articulating the team's calm yet resolute approach to these high-pressure moments. The collective sentiment is one of unwavering belief in their ability to navigate this challenging qualification path. Nigeria's predicted starting lineup against Lesotho is: Stanley Nwabali; William Troost-Ekong, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi; Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Ademola Lookman; Tolu Arokodare, Victor Osimhen.