The Super Eagles of Nigeria breathed new life into their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday evening.
In a match that showcased resilience and clinical finishing, Nigeria’s talisman Victor Osimhen delivered a brace, offering a glimmer of hope to fans as the team seeks to revive its quest for a spot in the global tournament.
Entering the fifth matchday of the CAF Group C qualifiers, Nigeria sat in fifth place with just three points from four games, their dreams of a seventh World Cup appearance hanging by a thread.
Facing a Rwandan side tied at the top of the group with seven points, the Super Eagles knew nothing short of a win would suffice.
Under the guidance of newly appointed coach Eric Chelle, making his competitive debut, the team rose to the occasion.
The first half saw Nigeria assert early dominance, pressing high and dictating the tempo. Osimhen opened the scoring in the 36th minute, capitalizing on a precise through ball to slot past Rwanda’s goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari.
As Rwanda fought back, gaining momentum in the closing stages of the half, Nigeria struck again. Osimhen pounced on a defensive lapse in stoppage time, doubling the lead and silencing the home crowd.
The second half was a test of Nigeria’s resolve, with Rwanda pushing forward in search of a lifeline.
The Amavubi of Rwanda, buoyed by their historic 2-1 upset over Nigeria in a 2025 AFCON qualifier last November, threatened repeatedly but found Nigeria’s defence, anchored by William Troost-Ekong, unyielding.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also played a pivotal role, thwarting several Rwandan attempts to keep a clean sheet.
The victory lifts Nigeria to six points, narrowing the gap with group leaders Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin.
With five matches left, including a home clash against Zimbabwe on March 25, the Super Eagles have reignited their campaign, though the road to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico remains steep.
The Super Eagles now head back to Uyo, where they’ll aim to build on this momentum.
