September 6, 2025-Published by Cyril

Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday to boost their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The decisive moment came in the 51st minute when new Wolves striker, Tolu Arokodare, who had been introduced at half-time, capitalised on a defensive mix-up in the Rwandan box to flick the ball home. His effort struck the crossbar before bouncing into the net, sending the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium into jubilation.

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The win lifted Nigeria to third place in Group C with 10 points, just one behind Benin Republic and six adrift of leaders South Africa, who they face next in a crunch clash in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.

Despite dominating possession, Eric Chelle’s men struggled to break down a resilient Rwandan defence in the first half. Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen had a goal correctly ruled out for offside before limping off with an ankle injury in the 35th minute, forcing Chelle to bring on Cyriel Dessers. Missed chances from Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi further frustrated the home crowd until Arokodare’s introduction turned the tide. His hold-up play opened spaces for Simon and Ademola Lookman to stretch the Amavubi backline and create more opportunities.

After the match, head coach Eric Chelle provided an update on Osimhen’s condition. “I can’t say much about Victor for now. He has pain in his ankle, and we will see when he wakes up tomorrow. I have to also discuss with the team doctors to see whether he will be available for the game,” the Malian tactician told reporters.

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Nigeria must now realistically beat South Africa to stay in contention for the automatic World Cup spot, with only group winners guaranteed a ticket. Failure to top the group could still see the Eagles qualify for the African play-offs as one of the four best second-placed teams, with a possible intercontinental decider looming.

The Super Eagles’ hopes could also be aided by FIFA’s yet-to-be-decided case against South Africa, who risk losing three points for allegedly fielding an ineligible player in their win over Lesotho earlier this year.

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