Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup became even tougher on Friday after South Africa powered to a 3–0 win over Lesotho.
Bafana Bafana, already leading the group, tightened their grip at the top with an early strike from Mohau Nkota in the 15th minute. After the break, Lyle Foster doubled the advantage in the 63rd minute before Oswin Appollis put the result beyond doubt just four minutes later.
The victory lifts South Africa to 16 points from seven games, five clear of second-placed Benin Republic on 11 points. Rwanda follow in third with eight points, while Nigeria sits fourth on seven points ahead of their crucial clash with Rwanda on Saturday evening.
With only a handful of qualifiers left, the Super Eagles must deliver a strong response to keep their World Cup dream alive.