Super Eagles Secure Crucial 1-0 Victory Over Rwanda To Revive World Cup Hopes
THE Super Eagles of Nigeria revived their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes on Saturday, securing a crucial 1-0 victory over Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Nigeria dominated from the outset, creating several chances before finally breaking the deadlock in the second half through Tolu Arokodare’s clinical strike.
Osimhen’s Early Setback, Missed Chances
Nigeria thought they had taken an early lead in the 8th minute when Victor Osimhen tapped home a pass from Ademola Lookman, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Moments later, Osimhen was substituted after picking up an injury, forcing a tactical adjustment from Coach Finidi George.
Rwanda’s goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari, stood tall throughout the first half — producing stunning saves to deny Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi, while keeping his side in the game.
Arokodare Breaks The Deadlock
Six minutes into the second half, Nigeria finally got their breakthrough.
Arokodare, who plies his trade with Wolverhampton Wanderers, capitalised on a goalmouth scramble to fire home from close range — netting his second international goal for Nigeria.
The striker had initially held up play brilliantly for Moses Simon, whose shot was blocked. He then followed up and slammed the rebound into the net to send the Uyo crowd into wild celebration.
Ntwari Denies Nigeria More Goals
Despite Nigeria’s dominance, Ntwari continued to frustrate the Super Eagles, pulling off crucial saves from Arokodare, Ndidi, and Simon’s well-taken free-kick in the final minutes.
The match ended 1-0 in favour of Nigeria, a result that breathes life into their qualification hopes ahead of Tuesday’s crunch clash against Bafana Bafana of South Africa.
Qualification Standings
The Super Eagles remain third in Group C, six points behind leaders South Africa.
The Benin Republic, currently second after a narrow 1-0 win over Zimbabwe, will face Nigeria in what promises to be a tense final-day showdown on October 14.
