CAF forces Lesotho to relocate World Cup qualifier against Nigeria
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has sent a major shockwave through Africa’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers after its stadium facilities team rejected Bloemfontein pitch, in South Africa for Lesotho’s important match against Nigeria.
14:10 – 24.09.2025
Nottingham Forest boss Ange Postecoglou has insisted Ola Aina’s injury is part and parcel of the game.
The move forces Lesotho to find a new home for the October 6 qualifier, a match that holds important weight for Nigeria’s World Cup aspirations.
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A Quest for a Suitable Home
Lesotho’s national team has been without a CAF-approved home ground for several years. Their primary stadium, Setsoto Stadium, does not meet the necessary standards for hosting international fixtures, which has often forced the team to play their “home” games in neighbouring countries.
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12:13 – 12.09.2025
Super Eagles defender Ola Aina will miss Nigeria’s WC qualifiers vs Benin & Lesotho, with AFCON 2025 in serious doubt.
South Africa’s stadiums have frequently been a preferred choice for Lesotho due to their proximity and high-quality facilities.
Breaking: The @CAF_Online stadium facilities team emailed the #Lesotho Football Association to say they must “designate an alternative venue, from the official list of CAF category 3 stadiums.” Lesotho have until September 24th to make this choice. https://t.co/hVC7lPSitr— Osasu Obayiuwana (@osasuo) September 24, 2025
CAF’s rejection of the yet-to-be-named South African venue now complicates the logistics for both teams and adds to the pressure on Lesotho’s football administration to secure an alternative location on short notice.
Nigeria’s Qualification Hopes Hinge on Group C Outcome
Former Super Eagles striker Samson Siasia has shared his thoughts on the growing number of foreign-born talents now playing for Nigeria.
The three-time African champions are currently in third place, trailing group leaders South Africa. With only the group winner guaranteed a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nigeria needs to secure a victory against Lesotho to keep its qualification hopes alive.
The result of this match, and the subsequent home fixture against Benin, will be critical for Nigeria.
Deadline Looms for Lesotho
With the September 24th deadline fast approaching, the Lesotho Football Association faces an immediate challenge. They must identify a suitable stadium from the limited pool of CAF-approved Category 3 venues in Africa and secure a deal to host the match.
Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr is confident his team can overtake group leaders to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after their stunning 4-0 win over Lesotho on Tuesday night.
Failure to do so could result in further sanctions from CAF, including the possibility of a forfeit.
