Super Eagles' hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dealt a blow following confirmation that Ademola Lookman will miss Nigeria’s decisive final qualifier against Benin, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Atalanta forward, who started in Nigeria’s crucial 2–1 win over Lesotho in Polokwane on Friday night, picked up a yellow card in the 70th minute of three encounter.
That caution was Lookman’s second of the qualifying campaign and it automatically rules him out of the next match due to suspension.
Lookman, one of Nigeria’s most creative outlets during the qualifying series, was replaced by Samuel Chukwueze shortly after receiving the booking. The winger had been enjoying a decent game before a moment of frustration led to his caution.
He retaliated after a rough challenge by a Lesotho defender, grabbing his opponent by the shirt.
The Lesotho player dramatically went to ground clutching his face, prompting the referee to issue Lookman a yellow card. The incident, though minor, carries major consequences for Nigeria’s next outing.
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Super Eagles scrape past Lesotho but face crucial Benin showdown
After Lookman’s substitution, Nigeria did enough to keep their qualification hopes alive.
William Troost-Ekong opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 55th minute before Akor Adams sealed the win with a composed finish 10 minutes from time.
Nigeria’s late surge ensured they remain in contention heading into Tuesday’s final group match against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Group C remains finely poised. Benin sit top with 17 points and a +5 goal difference after edging Rwanda 1–0 away on Friday.
South Africa, who had led the group for much of the campaign, dropped to second following FIFA’s decision to deduct three points for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho. Their goalless draw with Zimbabwe leaves them on 15 points.
Nigeria, with 14 points from nine matches, must now beat Benin by at least two goals and hope South Africa fail to defeat Rwanda to seal qualification for the World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
