Nwabali's costly error and four other observations from Super Eagles hard-fought win over Lesotho

Nigeria battled to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lesotho in Wednesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Captain William Troost-Ekong opened the scoring from the penalty spot early in the second half, before Akor Adams doubled the lead with a composed finish.

Lesotho, however, pulled one back through Hlompho Kalake after a costly error from goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the match.

Worrying first half display for Nigeria

The Super Eagles delivered a disappointing first-half performance against Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Despite fielding two powerful strikers, Nigeria struggled to trouble the Lesotho defense or test their goalkeeper with any meaningful attempt.

The display raises serious concerns for the Super Eagles, especially considering their recent performances and results in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Group C.

Super Eagles denied a penalty

Nigeria took the lead from the penalty spot in the 55th minute but were denied another spot-kick just three minutes later.

Besiktas midfielder Wilfred Ndidi appeared to be fouled inside the box following a swift team move.

However, centre referee Alhadi Mahamat waved play on, dismissing the Super Eagles’ appeals for a second penalty.

Bad crosses from Nigeria

The Super Eagles struggled with the quality of their crosses into the box, particularly in the first half, making it difficult for the strikers to pose any real threat.

Both the wingers and full-backs failed to deliver effective balls into the area, limiting the forwards’ impact on the game.

The only notable cross in the first half came from Moses Simon, but Tolu Arokodare was unable to convert from close range.

Nwabali’s late error almost cost the Eagles

Stanley Nwabali endured a disappointing finish to the game, nearly costing the Super Eagles their victory.

The Chippa United captain’s mistake allowed Lesotho to pull one back just minutes before full-time.

He almost compounded the error with another miscommunication with Semi Ajayi in the dying seconds, which nearly gifted Lesotho an equalizer.

Akor Adams scores on debut

Sevilla striker Akor Adams came on for Tolu Arokodare in the second half to make his Super Eagles debut.

He marked the occasion in style, scoring with a fine strike to restore Nigeria’s lead in the second half.

Adeyemi Adewale

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