The Super Eagles of Nigeria have landed in Polokwane, South Africa, as tension builds ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Lesotho on Friday.
The fixture, to be played at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, could determine Nigeria’s fate in Group C — and potentially decide if the three-time African champions will stay on course for the global showpiece.
Head coach Eric Chelle and his technical crew arrived with the early batch of players at The Ranch Hotel, where the team will camp throughout their stay. More players from Europe and Asia joined later in the day, as the atmosphere in camp turned serious and focused.
Nigeria currently sits third in Group C with 11 points, behind South Africa and Benin Republic, making this fixture a must-win. The team’s qualification hopes received a surprising boost last week after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) overturned South Africa’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho, awarding Lesotho a 3–0 win due to Bafana Bafana’s use of an ineligible player.
While the Super Eagles boast a potent frontline, defensive uncertainty clouds preparations. Felix Agu, who was drafted in as cover for Bright Osayi-Samuel, has been ruled out with an ankle injury after medical scans. His withdrawal adds to Nigeria’s full-back crisis, with Ola Aina still sidelined until December.
In midfield, concerns linger over Wilfred Ndidi, who continues to recover fitness after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Despite returning to action for Galatasaray, his recent performance — including an error leading to a goal — has drawn scrutiny from both fans and coaching staff.
If the defence raises alarms, the attack brings optimism. Victor Osimhen, fresh from scoring in Napoli’s Champions League win over Liverpool, looks determined to deliver for his country once again.
Young striker Akor Adams is also in fine form — having netted for Sevilla in their 4–1 win against Barcelona, assisted by compatriot Chidera Ejuke. Their combined energy could provide the cutting edge the Eagles have lacked in recent fixtures.
Chelle’s biggest challenge may not just be tactical — it’s disciplinary. A total of 11 Super Eagles players — including Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, and Stanley Nwabali — are one yellow card away from suspension. Any booking in Polokwane would see them miss the final qualifying clash against Benin Republic in Uyo.
The technical crew has reportedly cautioned the team to maintain composure and avoid unnecessary fouls, given the high stakes of both remaining games.
Training sessions kick off Tuesday morning at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, the same pitch where the Eagles will face Lesotho. Coach Chelle is expected to run closed sessions focusing on defensive coordination and set-piece execution.
For Nigeria, this is more than just another qualifying match — it’s a fight for redemption after the heartbreak of missing the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
A win in Polokwane could reignite confidence and momentum. A slip, however, could plunge the nation into another cycle of soul-searching and frustration.
As kickoff draws near, the question remains:
Can the Super Eagles soar when it matters most?
