In the 9th round of African World Cup qualifying, Lesotho will take on Nigeria on Friday, October 10, with kick-off at 18:00 Central European Time. Here’s what to expect from this important match.
Lesotho
Lesotho is currently struggling, having lost four consecutive matches without scoring. They suffered heavy defeats in the COSAFA Cup, losing 0-4 to Angola and 0-3 to Namibia, followed by World Cup qualifying losses against South Africa (0-3) and Benin (0-4). Their last win was in June against Malawi, which ended 1-0.
Lesotho is fifth in their group, five points behind the second place needed for a playoff spot. While they still have a chance, they must win their final games against Nigeria and Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe may be the weaker opponent, but facing Nigeria presents a bigger challenge.
Their past encounters with Nigeria have not been favorable, as Nigeria has won twice in their three meetings, with the only draw occurring in this qualifying tournament (1-1). Lesotho faces a significant hurdle against one of the stronger teams in the group.
Nigeria
Nigeria finds itself in a delicate position, sitting third in the group with 11 points, three behind the leaders Benin and South Africa. They must win their remaining matches to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive. Their next matches are against Lesotho and Benin.
The Super Eagles are in decent form, remaining unbeaten in their last three matches with two victories and a recent draw (1-1) against South Africa. After failing to qualify for the last World Cup, Nigeria is determined to succeed this time.
With a strong squad made up of players from top European clubs, Nigeria is favored to secure the win against Lesotho.
Probable lineups
- Lesotho: Moerane, Mkwanazi, Matlabe, Macheta, Makele, Matsau, Bereng, Toloane, Snyders, Mokachane, Maketeng.
- Nigeria: Nwabali, Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Onyemaechi, Osayi-Samuel, Onyeka, Onyedika, Dele-Bashiru, Uche, Simon, Boniface.
Key facts and head-to-head
- Lesotho has lost 3 of their last 4 matches.
- Lesotho has lost 3 of their last 4 home games.
- Each of Lesotho’s last 4 matches featured over 2.5 goals.
- Nigeria is unbeaten in 12 of their last 14 matches.
- Four of Nigeria’s last five matches had under 2.5 goals.
- Nigeria is unbeaten in their last 3 meetings with Lesotho.
Lesotho vs Nigeria prediction
Nigeria knows they cannot afford any mistakes and must win to stay in the World Cup race. Expect them to put forth their best effort from the start. Lesotho has a slim chance at the playoffs, but with four losses in a row and no goals, they are in a tough spot. Facing a strong and motivated Nigeria, Lesotho has a challenging road ahead. My prediction: Nigeria to win with a -1.5 handicap at odds of 1.47.