The Super Eagles have officially begun their preparations for the penultimate 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
Nigeria has set up camp at the luxurious The Ranch Resort in Polokwane, South Africa.
Head coach, Eric Chelle alongside his backroom staff, arrived over the weekend to welcome the squad, with players traveling from Europe and other locations via Johannesburg.
Training is set to commence on Tuesday, October 7, at the resort’s FIFA-accredited facilities as the team prepares for a critical match against Lesotho on Friday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Super Eagles, currently third in Group C of the qualifiers, trail group leaders Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa by three points.
With only two matches remaining, a victory in Polokwane is essential to maintain Nigeria’s hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
The team will face Lesotho before returning to Uyo for a final showdown against Benin on October 14.
Chelle’s 23-man squad features captain William Troost-Ekong anchoring a defense strengthened by the return of Semi Ajayi, while Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman spearhead a potent attack.
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The squad also includes the return of Terem Moffi, Russia-based forward Olakunle Olusegun, and Alhassan Yusuf, alongside a first call-up for Akor Adams.
However, injuries to key defenders have raised concerns about the team’s defensive stability.
Fans and analysts remain optimistic yet cautious, given Nigeria’s inconsistent qualifying
campaign.
With the World Cup dream at stake, the Super Eagles will look to leverage their star power and tactical discipline to secure a crucial victory.
The match against Lesotho kicks off at 5:00 PM Nigerian time on Friday, October 10 .
