Nigeria’s Super Eagles revived their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Rwanda on Saturday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
The crucial Group C encounter saw Nigeria dominate proceedings but struggle to convert chances until the breakthrough came in the 51st minute. Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Tolu Arokodare struck the only goal of the match, clinically finishing a well-weighted pass to net his second goal for the national team, having scored earlier against Russia in June.
The victory propelled Nigeria to third place in the group with 10 points, maintaining pressure on group leaders South Africa, who sit on 16 points. The Super Eagles will face the Bafana Bafana in a pivotal clash on Tuesday that could determine the trajectory of their World Cup campaign.
Nigeria faced an early setback when star striker Victor Osimhen was forced off due to injury, raising concerns ahead of the high-stakes tie against South Africa. Despite the blow, the Super Eagles remained composed, with midfield duo Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka providing solidity and control in the center of the park.
Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon constantly probed the Rwandan defense, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was alert when called upon, making key saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Rwanda, though resilient in defense and dangerous on the break, couldn’t find a way past Nigeria’s disciplined backline.
With the win over Rwanda, Nigeria remain firmly in the race for a spot at the 2026 World Cup, and all eyes now turn to Tuesday’s showdown with South Africa – a match that could define their qualification hopes.
