By Olukayode Oke
Nigeria’s Super Eagles revitalised their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes with an emphatic 2-0 triumph over Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday night. Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen stole the spotlight, netting twice to secure a crucial victory and keep Nigeria’s dream of competing in the United States, Canada, and Mexico alive.
The Group C encounter in the African qualifiers saw Nigeria take charge against a determined Rwandan team. Osimhen broke the deadlock in the 11th minute, latching onto a well-timed pass before coolly slotting the ball past Rwandan shot-stopper Fiacre Ntwari. Deep into first-half stoppage time, the reigning African Footballer of the Year struck again, tipping the ball over the goalkeeper to double Nigeria’s advantage and send their travelling fans into jubilation.
This crucial win signals a turnaround for Nigeria under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Eric Chelle, who took over in January. The Super Eagles had struggled in their opening four qualifiers, managing only three draws and a loss, but Osimhen’s brilliance has rekindled hope among supporters. Fans took to social media to express their excitement, with one post reading, “Osimhen is carrying this team—two goals and a massive step towards qualification!” Another added, “The Super Eagles are back on track—let’s keep up the momentum!”
Nigeria’s Position in Group C and the Path Ahead*
The victory propels Nigeria to six points in the tightly contested Group C standings, placing them in fourth position. South Africa currently lead with 10 points, followed by Benin on 8, Rwanda on 7, Lesotho with 5, and Zimbabwe at the bottom with 3. With only the group winners securing automatic qualification for the World Cup and the four best second-placed teams advancing to the playoffs, every match from this point forward is critical for Nigeria.
To guarantee a direct spot at the tournament, the Super Eagles must win all four of their remaining fixtures, starting with their upcoming clash against Zimbabwe. A maximum of 18 points remains achievable, which could see them overtake South Africa, Benin, and Rwanda if results favour them. A second-place finish with a high points tally might also provide an alternative path through the playoffs, but consistency will be crucial after a shaky start to the qualifiers.
*Up Next: Zimbabwe In Uyo*
Nigeria now shift their focus to a must-win fixture against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, 25 March 2025. With the backing of their passionate home crowd, the Super Eagles will rely on key players such as Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi to deliver another commanding performance. Despite sitting at the bottom of the group, Zimbabwe cannot be underestimated, and Nigeria must remain disciplined to claim another vital three points.
Meanwhile, other Group C fixtures will see Benin face South Africa, while Rwanda take on Lesotho in matches that could further impact the standings. For now, Nigerian supporters are celebrating a much-needed win that has reignited their World Cup ambitions. One fan summed up the optimism on social media, posting, “If we take six points from Rwanda and Zimbabwe, we’re right back in contention. Let’s soar, Super Eagles!”
With Osimhen in outstanding form and a renewed sense of determination under Chelle, Nigeria’s quest for a place at the 2026 World Cup is far from over. The road remains challenging, but Friday’s success in Kigali has given the Super Eagles a fighting chance to reclaim their spot among Africa’s finest teams.
