Nigeria secured a 2-0 win against Rwanda in their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign, thanks to Victor Osimhen’s two goals. Under new manager Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles needed this victory after a challenging start to qualification. The win enables Nigeria to move closer to the qualifying positions in Group C as they prepare for their next match.
Nigeria’s quest for qualification in the 2026 World Cup regained momentum with a 2-0 victory over Rwanda, bolstered by Victor Osimhen’s two goals. Competing in Kigali, the Super Eagles faced pressing stakes, sitting fifth in Group C and five points short of a qualifying position due to prior match struggles.
Under new manager Eric Chelle, appointed to enhance the team’s chances after Augustine Eguavoen’s departure, Nigeria fielded a strong lineup, including Premier League players like Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, and Wilfred Ndidi. Despite a long-standing absence of goals while playing in Rwanda, the team successfully executed their strategy.
Osimhen’s first goal emerged from Ademola Lookman’s free-kick, where Osimhen’s positioning at the back post allowed him to convert from close range. The Super Eagles dominated play throughout the match, with Troost-Ekong nearly capitalizing on set pieces and Moses Simon being thwarted by a remarkable save from Rwanda’s goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari.
Just before half-time, Osimhen struck again, this time finishing with a precise lob over Ntwari after stealing the ball from his defender, setting a daunting task for Rwanda in the second half. In contrast to Rwanda’s earlier win in the preceding encounter last November, Nigeria confidently managed the second half to secure their first qualification win.
The results subsequently shifted standings in Group C, with South Africa’s victory leaving Rwanda in third place. Nigeria climbed to fourth, just one point behind Rwanda as they gear up for a critical encounter against Zimbabwe next week.
Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Rwanda is pivotal for their World Cup qualification hopes. With Victor Osimhen’s brace, the Super Eagles have shifted their position in Group C, moving closer to a qualifying spot. Under Eric Chelle’s management, the team’s performance showcased their potential and resilience, setting the stage for their crucial upcoming match against Zimbabwe.
Original Source: www.standard.co.uk
