Sunday October 5, 2025
By TheNewsDESK |
World football body, FIFA, has appointed Chadian referee Alhadi Mahamat to take charge of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
The match — a must-win for the Super Eagles — will take place at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday, October 10, 2025, with kickoff slated for 6pm local time (5pm in Nigeria).
Mahamat, who officiated Nigeria’s 1–0 win over Rwanda in Uyo last month, will again be assisted by an all-Chadian crew, Bogola Issa (first assistant), Moussa Hafiz (second assistant), and Abdelkerim Ousmane (fourth official).
FIFA also named Kenyan official Alice Kimani as referee assessor, while William Shongwe from eSwatini will serve as match commissioner.
Currently sitting three points behind group leaders Benin Republic and South Africa, Nigeria must secure victory to keep their qualification hopes alive for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Lesotho clash will be followed by another decisive tie — a home fixture against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on October 14. Egyptian referee Omar Amin Mohamed will handle that encounter, assisted by compatriots Mahmoud Aboulergal and Ali Teleb.
FIFA recently handed Nigeria a boost after sanctioning South Africa for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their 2–0 win over Lesotho in March — overturning the result and awarding a 3–0 victory to Lesotho.
That decision has reshaped the group standings, with Benin and South Africa tied on 14 points, while Nigeria and Rwanda trail with 11 points each.
With six points still up for grabs, Nigeria’s fate remains firmly in their hands — but only back-to-back wins will guarantee a spot at next summer’s global showpiece.
