As the Super Eagles prepare to face Rwanda in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, we take a trip down memory lane to revisit six of Nigeria’s most iconic away victories(wins) in World Cup qualifying history.
2002 WCQ: Sudan 0-4 Nigeria – A Defining Victory
A dominant performance in Omdurman saw the Super Eagles thrash Sudan 4-0, with goals from Austin Okocha, Julius Aghahowa, and a Yakubu Aiyegbeni brace. This win propelled Nigeria to the top of Group B and ultimately secured qualification for the 2002 World Cup.
2006 WCQ: Algeria 2-5 Nigeria – A Historic Win
Despite missing out on the 2006 World Cup, Nigeria recorded a historic 5-2 victory over Algeria in Oran. John Utaka, Christian Obodo, and a hat-trick from Obafemi Martins sealed an emphatic win against an Algerian side desperate for points.
2010 WCQ: Kenya 2-3 Nigeria – A Dramatic Comeback
In a thrilling final-day clash, Obafemi Martins scored twice as Nigeria came from behind to edge Kenya 3-2 and book their place at the 2010 World Cup. With Tunisia leading Group B before the match, Nigeria’s hopes depended on Mozambique defeating the North Africans—which they did.
2014 WCQ: Ethiopia 1-2 Nigeria – A Crucial Away Win
The Super Eagles took a big step towards the 2014 World Cup by defeating Ethiopia 2-1 in Addis Ababa. Emmanuel Emenike inspired Nigeria’s comeback with a brace, including a late penalty.
2018 WCQ: Zambia 1-2 Nigeria – A Hard-Fought Victory
Nigeria kicked off their 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-1 away win over Zambia. Goals from Alex Iwobi and Kelechi Iheanacho gave the Super Eagles a comfortable lead before a defensive lapse allowed Zambia’s Collins Mbesuma to pull one back.
2022 WCQ: Cape Verde 1-2 Nigeria – A Fighting Spirit
The Super Eagles extended their unbeaten run in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Cape Verde. Victor Osimhen equalized after Tavares put the hosts ahead, and an own goal from Kenny Rocha Santos secured all three points for Nigeria.
As the Super Eagles face another crucial away fixture against Rwanda, they must draw inspiration from these iconic victories and summon the fighting spirit that has defined their World Cup qualifying campaigns.