2026 WCQ: 3 Super Eagles stars with a point to prove vs Lesotho, Benin

The Super Eagles are walking a tightrope. With two games left in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, Nigeria find themselves third in Group C with 11 points, three behind South Africa and Benin. The math is simple but harsh: only the group winner qualifies automatically. Anything less than six points from these final two matches, and the dream is over.

It starts on Friday, October 10, against Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, before returning to Uyo four days later for the decisive clash against Benin. The margins are thin, the stakes sky-high. This is where big names step up and reputations are restored.

Here are three Super Eagles players who need to deliver when it matters most.

Ademola Lookman – Time to cook again

Let’s face it, Lookman didn’t look himself during the September qualifiers. The winger was missing his usual spark in the 1–0 win over Rwanda and the 1–1 draw away to South Africa. He hadn’t had a proper preseason with Atalanta, and it showed: the sharpness, the energy, the fearless drive at defenders; all looked a bit dulled.

But there are signs the switch is flipping again. Over the weekend, Lookman was one of Atalanta’s brighter sparks in their draw against Como. He may have missed two big chances, but he looked more like the Lookman Nigerians fell in love with,  taking on defenders, creating danger, and asking questions.

We’re back in action this month and it’s fight till the finish! 💪🏽#SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/hvUU5KfC5J

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 1, 2025

The Super Eagles' attack has been short on confidence and composure in front of goal. When the reigning CAF Player of the Year is firing, he changes games with his ability to make something out of nothing. If he finds his rhythm again, he could be the difference between heartbreak and hope.

William Troost-Ekong – One last stand for the Super Eagles captain

For the captain, it’s been a tough stretch. The own goal against South Africa, the mistake versus Zimbabwe; those moments linger. Injuries and inconsistent minutes have made things even trickier, and with Fredrick now staking his claim in central defence, Ekong’s grip on his starting shirt looks less secure than ever.

But experience still counts for something. When the pressure’s this high, when the noise is loud and the margin for error disappears, calm heads are gold dust. Ekong has seen it all, from the 2018 World Cup to countless AFCON battles and this could be his last big outing in green and white.

If he starts, he must lead with presence. No nerves, no lapses, just the discipline, grit, and leadership that once made him a mainstay. The Super Eagles will need that voice at the back more than ever.

Frank Onyeka – Fish or fowl?

Frank Onyeka has always divided opinion. He’s got the engine, the tenacity, the energy; but no one’s entirely sure what his best role in this Super Eagles setup is. Against Rwanda, he looked unsure and disconnected, struggling to impose himself before being subbed off.

Now, with only four midfielders named in Eric Chelle's squad, Onyeka has little room to hide. He will play, and the expectation is that he sets the tone, wins tackles, controls the tempo, and gives the forwards a platform.

Chelle’s midfield often looks too easy to bypass, and that’s where Onyeka has to come in strong. It’s not about running everywhere; it’s about making those runs count. He doesn’t need to be flashy, just effective. If he can anchor the midfield and keep Nigeria compact, it’ll go a long way in helping the team get those vital wins.

Two games to try and keep their World Cup dream alive. Even if they take all six points, the three-time African champions will still be praying for one of their rivals to stumble.