The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a crucial 1–0 victory over Rwanda in a high-stakes 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, reigniting their qualification campaign.
The breakthrough came in the 51st minute when Tolu Arokodare pounced on a loose ball inside the penalty area and calmly slotted past Rwanda’s goalkeeper to hand the Super Eagles a priceless lead.
The first half had ended goalless, with both sides cautious in their approach, Nigeria were dealt an early setback when star striker and former CAF Men’s Player of the Year Victor Osimhen limped off injured and was replaced by Cyril Dessers.
Despite the blow, the Super Eagles’ backline, led by Calvin Bassey, stood firm against Rwanda’s second-half pressure.
The victory lifts Nigeria to 10 points from seven matches in Group C, one point behind Benin Republic who are second with 11 points, and leapfrogging Rwanda, who stay on eight points.
The result keeps alive the three-time African champions’ hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup in USA, Mexico and Canada after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar losing the ticket to their West African arch rivals, Black Stars of Ghana.
Fans took to social media to celebrate the team’s resilience, while concerns mounted over the fitness of Osimhen ahead of Tuesday’s pivotal clash against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa —the group leader, in Bloemfontein.
With momentum back on their side, the Super Eagles under head coach Eric Chelle will look to push further in their quest for a ticket to the United States, Canada, and Mexico.