2026 World Cup: FIFA appoints referees for Nigeria’s qualifiers against Lesotho, Benin

FIFA has confirmed the match officials for Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying fixtures against Lesotho and Benin Republic.

For the Matchday 9 clash against Lesotho, scheduled for Friday, October 10, 2025, at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, Chadian referee Alhadi Allaou Mahamat will take charge. Mahamat also officiated Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo on September 6.

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He will be assisted by compatriots Bogola Issa (Assistant Referee 1), Moussa Hafiz (Assistant Referee 2), and Abdelkerim Ousmane (Fourth Official). Kenyan official Alice Damaris Kimani has been named Referee Assessor, while William Makinati Shongwe from eSwatini will serve as Match Commissioner.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are third on Group C standings with 11 points, currently trailing group leaders Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa by three points.

Victory is crucial to boosting their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.