2026 WCQ: Osimhen Helps Nigeria Secure 2-0 Win Over Rwanda

Nigeria is on the path to revitalizing its 2026 World Cup qualification efforts, thanks to a double from Victor Osimhen, resulting in a well-earned two-goal victory for the Super Eagles on Friday in their match against Rwanda.

Naija News reports that the Super Eagles entered the match positioned fifth in Group C, having not secured a victory in their initial four matches, with three draws and one loss.

Under the management of Eric Chelle, the visitors made an impressive start as Osimhen manoeuvred to the back post to connect with Ademola Lookman’s excellent free-kick, breaking the deadlock just 11 minutes into the game.

A remarkable save by Rwanda’s goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari, thwarted Moses Simon’s attempt to extend the lead, while William Troost-Ekong came close to scoring from corner kicks on two occasions.

Just before halftime, Osimhen sprinted through to net his second goal of the day, leaving Rwanda—who had previously come from behind to win in their last encounter with Nigeria in November—with a significant challenge ahead in the second half.

An advantage for Nigeria in the match allowed Osimhen to secure his hat trick; however, he misfired with a reckless swing and failed to connect.

This marked his last contribution to the match as he was substituted for Arokodare.

Naija News reports that the win over Rwanda propelled Nigeria from 5th to 4th place in the standings, bringing their total to 6 points, just one point shy of Rwanda, who has 7 points, 2 points behind the second-placed Benin Republic, and 4 points behind the leaders, South Africa, who sit at 10 points.

An examination of the Group C standings indicates that the Super Eagles still have a significant challenge ahead in securing an automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, but the match against Rwanda marks a positive beginning for the new coach, Eric Chelle.

The Malian coach assembled a robust lineup featuring star forwards Osimhen and Lookman at the forefront, with Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon providing support.

In the midfield for the three-time African champions in Kigali, Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City and Fulham’s Alex Iwobi took charge.

Calvin Bassey and Troost Ekong formed a solid partnership in the defence for Nigeria, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali ensured safety in goal for Chelle’s squad, with Bright Osayi-Samuel rounding out the starting eleven.

Nigeria is set to host Zimbabwe in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State in South-South Nigeria on Tuesday, aiming to secure another three points to move up the standings.