The Super Eagles of Nigeria claimed an important victory over Rwanda in Kigali to boost their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria headed into the game failing to win their first four games in Group C, drawing three and losing one and were fifth on the table.
They needed to get a win against Rwanda, whom they have failed to defeat in their last two outings, losing one and drawing one.
However, they secured a 2-0 victory against the Amavubi in a bid to get a ticket to the World Cup in the USA.
)
16:57 - 21.03.2025
They know the formation he wants to use - Super Eagles' youngest World Cup player predicts Nigeria vs Rwanda outcome
Nigeria will secure a crucial victory against Rwanda in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, according to former Super Eagles forward Femi Opabunmi.
)
12:00 - 21.03.2025
‘They believe they can handle our team’ - Troost-Ekong responds to Rwanda claiming they can neutralize Nigeria's attack
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has charged the Rwanda team to try to stop Nigeria's attack following their captain’s claim.
As it happened
The new head coach Erik Chelle used a 4-4-2 formation against Rwanda, with Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman leading the attack for the Super Eagles.
Nigeria needed to start the game on the front foot and needed an early goal to get going. In the 11th minute, the Super Eagles got the first goal from an inswinging freekick.
Lookman put in a decent freekick, which was met at the far corner by Osimhen, who put his laces on the ball and slotted home.
)
The Super Eagles doubled their lead before stoppage time in the first half after Osimhen snatched a loose ball from a Rwanda defender and was through on goal with only the goalkeeper to beat. He dinked the ball over the shot-stopper to get his second goal of the game.
Chelle’s side controlled the game in the second half and limited Rwanda from creating any chances. However, they were unable to get more goals and extend their two-goal lead in the game.
Following the final whistles, the Super Eagles moved to fourth place on the table with six points. They will now place their attention on their next game against Zimbabwe in Uyo.