An important FIFA World Cup qualifier game is set to be played on Friday as Lesotho host Nigeria in a must-win clash at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa
The Crocodiles enter this match in poor form, having lost their last four games. In their previous qualifying match, they suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Benin, which puts them fifth in the group, with nine points.
The Super Eagles, on the other hand, come into the fixture with a disappointing 1-1 draw with South Africa, putting their qualification hopes in jeopardy. However, following the point deduction for the Bafana Bafana, their hopes have been reignited once again. They currently sit in third place with 11 points.
Read our Lesotho vs Nigeria predictions and preview to find out, but remember to also check our other World Cup qualifiers predictions.
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Lesotho vs Nigeria prediction: Super Eagles to win
Key statistics
- A first-half draw was played in their last meeting.
- Nigeria have won two of their last three meetings against Lesotho.
- Their last three games have had over 1.5 goals scored.
Correct score prediction: Lesotho 0-2 Nigeria
We predict a 2-0 victory for Nigeria. Although the Crocodiles managed a 1-1 draw against the Super Eagles in their most recent World Cup qualifier in November 2023, we believe the current need to secure a win would play a role in this game.
Lesotho's recent heavy 4-0 loss to Benin and 3-0 loss to South Africa show a leaky defence that the attacking talent of the Super Eagles should exploit.
Pre-match odds and win probability: Nigeria heavy favourites
- Home: 16/1 (17.00) – 5.9%
- Draw: 7/1 (8.00) – 12.5%
- Away: 1/11 (1.09) – 91.7%
*Odds provided by Ladbrokes. Subject to change.*
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are clear favourites, with a 91.7% chance of victory at 1.09 odds, based on their recent form and their desire to qualify for the World Cup. A draw is priced at 8.00 with a 12.5% chance, while Lesotho’s odds of 17.00 give them just a 5.9% chance of pulling off an upset.
Most recent head-to-head: Nigeria dominate Lesotho
Their previous head-to-head record reveals that there have been only three meetings between the two countries. Eric Chelle’s team have won two of their last three meetings. Their previous meetings include a thrilling 4-2 victory for Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in 2019 and a 3-0 win in the same competition in 2021 and another 1-1 draw, showing how dominant they have been.
Africa - World Cup Qualifying 16/11/23
Nigeria
Lesotho
Africa Cup of Nations Qualification 30/03/21
Nigeria
Lesotho
Africa Cup of Nations Qualification 17/11/19
Lesotho
Nigeria
After reviewing our key Lesotho vs Nigeria predictions, be sure to visit our website for the remaining football betting tips today.
Lesotho preview: No injury worries
Leslie Notsi’s team heads into the match with a fully fit squad and no injury concerns. This gives the coach the advantage of selecting from his strongest lineup, maintaining consistency and ensuring every key player is available for the crucial qualifier.
Predicted lineup: Moerane (GK), Malane, Mkwanazi, Makhele, Matlabe, Rapuleng, Matsau, Mokachane, Toloane, Thabantso & Sera
Last five fixtures
- 09.09.25 – Benin 4 – 0 Lesotho
- 05.09.25 – Lesotho 0 – 3 South Africa
- 10.06.25 – Namibia 3 – 0 Lesotho
- 08.06.25 – Angola 4 – 0 Lesotho
- 05.06.25 – Malawi 0 – 1 Lesotho
Nigeria preview: New injury concern in the team
Chelle will be without several key players for this match. Ola Aina remains sidelined with a long-term hamstring injury suffered during last month’s international break. Meanwhile, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Cyriel Dessers have been withdrawn from the squad and replaced by Zaidu Sanusi and Christantus Uche, who were part of the head coach’s initial selection.
Predicted lineup: Nwabali (GK), Fredrick, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Onyemaechi, Onyeka, Ndidi, Iwobi, Lookman, Simon & Osimhen
Last five fixtures
- 09.09.25 – South Africa 1 – 1 Nigeria
- 06.09.25 – Nigeria 1 – 0 Rwanda
- 19.08.25 – Nigeria 2 – 0 Congo
- 12.08.25 – Sudan 4 – 0 Nigeria
- 05.08.25 – Senegal 1 – 0 Nigeria
Player to watch: Victor Osimhen
Victor Osimhen has always been an important player for Nigeria. The forward has been in good form for his club, having scored three goals across all competitive matches this season. He has also scored three goals in the World Cup qualifying phase. His ability makes him a threat to the Super Eagles against the Crocodiles' defence.