Victor Osimhen netted a clinical first-half brace to secure a vital 2-0 victory for Nigeria over Rwanda in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C qualifier at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday evening.
The Galatasaray striker’s goals, his 24th and 25th international tallies, delivered the Super Eagles’ first win of the qualification series, reviving Nigeria’s hopes of securing a spot in the upcoming World Cup.
Under new coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria’s attack featured a potent lineup with Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Samuel Chukwueze all deployed in forward positions, supported by Alex Iwobi. This attacking setup paid off early, as Osimhen found the back of the net in the 11th minute.
The former Napoli striker was at the right place at the right time, meeting Lookman’s free-kick at the back post and slotting home to give Nigeria a 1-0 lead.
The Super Eagles continued to dominate possession and chances, but they were unable to extend their lead immediately. William Troost-Ekong had two opportunities but was unable to convert, with his attempts drifting wide.
Moses Simon thought he had doubled the lead with a deflected shot, but Rwanda’s goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari tipped it over the bar to deny him.
Rwanda slowly found their rhythm and threatened Nigeria’s defense, with Gilber Mugisha testing goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali with a long-range strike in the 39th minute. However, Nwabali was equal to the task, comfortably handling the effort.
Against the run of play, Nigeria doubled their lead just before halftime. Osimhen completed his brace in the 45th minute, pouncing on a header from Bright Osayi-Samuel at midfield.
Osimhen darted into the box, eluding a defender and delicately chipping the ball over the goalkeeper to give Nigeria a commanding 2-0 lead.
Rwanda emerged more determined in the second half, but Nigeria’s defense, combined with solid goalkeeping from Nwabali, stood firm.
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Despite some attacking pressure, the hosts were unable to find the breakthrough, with poor coordination and last-ditch clearances ensuring that Nigeria maintained their two-goal advantage.
The Super Eagles saw out the remainder of the match efficiently, handing coach Eric Chelle a perfect start to his tenure.
This victory not only marked Nigeria’s first-ever win in Rwanda but also served as redemption for their shock 2-1 loss to the Wasps in the African Nations Cup qualifiers last year.
The result propels Nigeria to fourth place in Group C with six points from five matches.
The Super Eagles will next face Zimbabwe on March 25 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium as they continue their pursuit of World Cup qualification.
