Victor Osimhen’s first-half double propelled Nigeria to a crucial 2-0 victory over Rwanda in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Kigali’s Amahoro Stadium on Friday, reigniting the Super Eagles’ hopes of securing a spot in the tournament.
The Galatasaray striker, making his debut appearance in the qualifying series, scored twice before halftime to become Nigeria’s second all-time leading scorer with 25 international goals, surpassing Segun Odegbami (23) and trailing only the late Rashidi Yekini (37).
Osimhen opened the scoring in the 11th minute, capitalizing on a lofted free-kick from Ademola Lookman to slot home at the far post. The 25-year-old doubled Nigeria’s lead just before halftime, outpacing a defender to coolly finish a through ball.
Despite an early injury scare when Osimhen fell awkwardly in the opening minute, the Super Eagles dominated the first half. Rwanda struggled to threaten in the second half, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali rarely tested as Nigeria sealed their first win in Group C.
The victory marked a winning start for newly appointed head coach Eric Chelle, the Franco-Malian tactician overseeing Nigeria’s first triumph at the Amahoro Stadium in two decades.
Group C Standings Shift
The result lifts Nigeria to fourth in the group with six points from five matches, narrowing the gap to leaders South Africa (10 points), Benin Republic (8), and Rwanda (7). Zimbabwe remains bottom with three points.
South Africa solidified their top position with a 2-0 win over Lesotho earlier on Friday.
Road to 2026
Nigeria’s campaign had previously stalled with three draws and a loss, but Friday’s win revives their bid for a seventh World Cup appearance. The Super Eagles will host last-placed Zimbabwe on Tuesday at Uyo’s Godswill Akpabio Stadium, a match critical to maintaining momentum in the race for one of the group’s automatic qualification spots.
With seven games remaining in the 10-match qualifying series, Nigeria aims to close the gap in a tight Group C, where only the winner guarantees a place at the 2026 tournament in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
Key Notes:
Osimhen’s 25 goals place him second behind Rashidi Yekini in Nigeria’s scoring history.
Nigeria’s first win in Rwanda since 2004.
Next match: Nigeria vs. Zimbabwe, March 25, Uyo.
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