Nigeria’s Super Eagles took flight in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, securing a convincing 2-0 victory over Rwanda. The match, held at a neutral venue, showcased the brilliance of Victor Osimhen, who bagged both goals to hand Nigeria their first three points of the tournament.
The win propels Nigeria to fourth place in Group C with six points, trailing South Africa (10 points), Benin Republic (8 points), and Rwanda (7 points). It also marks a triumphant debut for new Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who will be pleased with his team’s commanding performance.
First-Half Dominance: Osimhen Strikes Twice
From the opening whistle, the Super Eagles took charge of proceedings. Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon orchestrated early attacks, keeping the Rwandan defense on high alert. The breakthrough came in the 10th minute when Lookman delivered a perfectly weighted free-kick, allowing Osimhen to flick the ball into the net with a clinical touch.
Nigeria continued their relentless pressure, with Ola Aina winning a free-kick in a dangerous position in the 15th minute. Lookman’s delivery found William Troost-Ekong, whose header narrowly missed the target. Rwanda struggled to find an answer to Nigeria’s attacking intensity, and in the 24th minute, Simon unleashed a powerful strike that forced an acrobatic save from the Rwandan goalkeeper.
Just before halftime, Osimhen once again stole the spotlight. Capitalizing on a defensive error, he intercepted a misplaced pass, sprinted towards goal, and coolly chipped the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper to complete his brace. With a 2-0 lead at the break, Nigeria was firmly in control.
Second Half: Super Eagles Maintain Control
Nigeria resumed the second half with the same attacking intent. In the 48th minute, Osimhen was brought down by Rwanda’s captain Djihad Bizimana, who received a yellow card for his troubles. Lookman’s resulting free-kick was deflected for a corner, but the Super Eagles couldn’t convert.
The pressure persisted as Osimhen and Simon continued to trouble Rwanda’s backline. A near miss in the 56th minute saw the Rwandan goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari, make a crucial save to deny Nigeria a third goal. Meanwhile, Rwanda’s attacking efforts were kept at bay by a rock-solid Nigerian defense, limiting them to just one shot on target throughout the match.
With an hour gone, the match became a battle of endurance. Nigeria’s tactical discipline ensured they held control, even as Rwanda attempted to claw their way back into the game.
Substitutions and Tactical Adjustments
Coach Eric Chelle made key changes in the second half to maintain Nigeria’s momentum. In the 66th minute, Raphael Onyedika and Bruno Onyemaechi replaced Samuel Chukwueze and Ola Aina, injecting fresh energy into the midfield and defense.
Osimhen, having run tirelessly and delivered a match-winning performance, was substituted in the 76th minute for Tolu Arokodare, who made his Super Eagles debut. Yusuf Alhassan also entered the fray, replacing Bright Osayi-Samuel to help secure the midfield.
The only moment of concern came in the 89th minute when Alex Iwobi received a yellow card for a late challenge. However, the Super Eagles remained composed and saw out the game professionally.
Full-Time: Nigeria Secures Important Three Points
As the referee signaled five minutes of added time, Rwanda failed to muster any real attacking threat. Nigeria calmly controlled possession and saw out the match to secure a well-earned 2-0 victory.
Osimhen’s heroics and a disciplined team effort ensured a dream start for Eric Chelle as head coach. With this momentum, Nigeria now sets its sights on their next qualifier against Zimbabwe in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, next Tuesday. A win there could significantly boost the Super Eagles’ chances of booking a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This performance sends a clear message to Nigeria’s rivals: with Osimhen leading the charge, the Super Eagles are a force to be reckoned with in African football.
