By KUNLE SOLAJA.
As Nigeria prepare to host Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday, attention in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers will first shift to Mangaung this Friday, where South Africa face Lesotho in a clash that could reshape the group’s balance of power.
Lesotho, currently fifth on six points, are still very much in contention despite their lowly position.
Their tally might have been nine had FIFA ruled on an earlier South Africa infringement, but the Crocodiles remain within touching distance of the leaders.
In a curious twist, the match—technically a Lesotho home fixture—will be staged at the Free State Stadium in South Africa.
Group leaders South Africa, on 13 points, know that victory will allow them to retain command of the section, piling pressure on Nigeria, Rwanda and Benin who play on Saturday.
For Lesotho, however, the stakes are even higher: a win would catapult them from fifth place to second before the other fixtures kick off, instantly tightening the race.
The outcome in Mangaung will ripple across the group. Nigeria, on seven points, must host Rwanda less than 24 hours later, knowing that defeat would damage their push for top spot—especially with a daunting trip to South Africa looming just three days after the Uyo showdown.
Rwanda, on eight points, face a similar scenario: Saturday’s result could either cement their challenge or leave them chasing shadows if South Africa or Lesotho edge ahead.
Benin, meanwhile, will host Zimbabwe in Abidjan also this Friday with hopes of staying alive in the qualification picture.
With only group winners guaranteed automatic tickets to the 2026 World Cup in North America, Friday’s Lesotho–South Africa encounter promises to be just as destiny-shaping as the Super Eagles’ must-win clash against Rwanda.
The next 24 hours could go a long way in defining one of Africa’s most unpredictable qualification races.
Group C Permutations – If Lesotho v South Africa…
