Super Eagles Soar as Osimhen Fires Nigeria to Victory Over Rwanda

Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign in style, securing a vital 2-0 victory over Rwanda. The match, played at a neutral venue, saw Victor Osimhen steal the show with a commanding performance, netting both goals to give Nigeria their first three points of the campaign.

With this victory, Nigeria moves to fourth place in Group C with six points, trailing South Africa (10 points), Benin Republic (8 points), and Rwanda (7 points). The win also marks a successful debut for new Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who will be pleased with his team’s dominant display.

First-Half Dominance: Osimhen Strikes Twice

The Super Eagles wasted no time asserting their authority in the game. Right from the kickoff, Nigeria controlled possession, with Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon particularly lively in attack. Their early pressure paid off in the 10th minute when Lookman delivered a pinpoint free-kick that found Osimhen, who applied a deft touch to guide the ball into the net, putting Nigeria ahead.

Nigeria continued to pile on the pressure, and in the 15th minute, Ola Aina was fouled in a dangerous area. Lookman once again delivered a well-placed set-piece, but William Troost-Ekong’s header went just wide. The Rwandan defense struggled to cope with Nigeria’s attacking movement, and in the 24th minute, Simon’s powerful effort forced an incredible save from the Rwandan goalkeeper.

Despite a resilient defensive effort from Rwanda, Nigeria doubled their lead just before halftime. In the 45th minute, Osimhen pressed a Rwandan defender into a mistake, stole possession, and raced through on goal. With the goalkeeper rushing out, the Napoli striker calmly lifted the ball over him, sealing a first-half brace and putting Nigeria firmly in control at the break.

Second Half: Super Eagles Maintain Control

The second half saw Nigeria continue their attacking momentum. Just moments after the restart, Osimhen was fouled by Rwanda’s captain, Djihad Bizimana, who was booked for his challenge. Lookman’s resulting free-kick was deflected for a corner, but the Super Eagles failed to capitalize.

Nigeria remained on the front foot, with Osimhen and Simon combining well in attack. In the 56th minute, the Super Eagles pushed for a third goal, but Rwanda’s goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari, made crucial saves to keep his side in the game. As the match progressed, Rwanda attempted to push forward but managed only one shot on target, highlighting Nigeria’s defensive solidity.

The intensity of the game increased around the hour mark, with both teams engaging in an end-to-end battle. However, Nigeria’s tactical discipline ensured they remained in control despite Rwanda’s brief attacking spells.

Substitutions and Tactical Adjustments

Coach Eric Chelle made crucial changes in the second half to maintain Nigeria’s grip on the game. In the 66th minute, Raphael Onyedika and Bruno Onyemaechi replaced Samuel Chukwueze and Ola Aina, adding fresh legs to the midfield and defense.

Osimhen, having put in a stellar performance, was substituted in the 76th minute for Tolu Arokodare, who made his Super Eagles debut. Yusuf Alhassan also came on for Bright Osayi-Samuel in a bid to tighten the midfield and see out the match.

With Nigeria controlling proceedings, the only moment of concern came in the 89th minute when Alex Iwobi received a yellow card for a late challenge. However, the Super Eagles remained composed and managed the closing minutes effectively.

Full-Time: Nigeria Secures Important Three Points

The referee signaled five minutes of added time, but Rwanda failed to mount any serious threat. Nigeria comfortably saw out the match, securing a well-deserved 2-0 victory. Osimhen’s two-goal heroics and a disciplined team performance ensured that Eric Chelle’s tenure as head coach began on a positive note.

With this win, Nigeria now turns its focus to their next qualifier against Zimbabwe, which will be played in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, next Tuesday. A victory in that match could significantly boost the Super Eagles’ chances of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This result sends a strong message to their group rivals: Nigeria is ready to compete at the highest level, and with Victor Osimhen leading the line, the Super Eagles remain a formidable force in African football.