Nigeria coach Eric Chelle says his side is still very much alive in the race to qualify for the FIFA World Cup after their crucial victory over Lesotho in the qualifiers on Friday.

The Super Eagles, who looked all but out of contention, reignited their campaign with a 2-1 win over Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium.

They took full advantage of Bafana Bafana’s frustration after South Africa were held to a goalless draw by Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium, also on Friday.

Nigeria now sits third in Group C with 14 points — one behind second-placed South Africa and three adrift of leaders Benin, who cemented their top spot after defeating Rwanda in Kigali.

Interestingly, Nigeria will host Benin in Uyo on Tuesday in what promises to be a winner-takes-all clash. The Super Eagles will be hoping to claim victory while also relying on Rwanda to upset South Africa at Mbombela Stadium to secure their place at next year’s FIFA World Cup in Canada, the USA, and Mexico.

It’s a nerve-jangling finish for all three top teams in Group C — arguably the most competitive group in the African qualifiers.

“Today [Friday], we’re happy — we got the three points, we’re still alive, and maybe the journalists can do the mathematics for us,” said Chelle.

Nigeria started strongly in the second half, with captain William Troost-Ekong converting from the penalty spot before Akor Adams doubled the lead.

Lesotho, who along with Zimbabwe are already out of contention, pulled one back through Hlompho Kalake in the 83rd minute. However, Nigeria — who missed the last World Cup — held firm to secure the win.

“I’m happy with my players and their performance, and I want to congratulate them,” added Chelle. “Now we go back home to Uyo for the next game.”

In the African qualifiers, only the group winners automatically qualify for the FIFA World Cup, while the four best runners-up will earn a second chance through a play-off round.