The Super Eagles of Nigeria grabbed a vital 2-0 win over Rwanda in Kigali. The victory gives Nigeria a strong push in their journey to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Before this game, Nigeria had failed to win any of their first four Group C matches. They drew three games and lost one. The team sat in fifth place, with pressure mounting from fans and critics.
Rwanda had been a tough opponent in recent meetings. Nigeria failed to beat them in the last two matches, drawing one and losing one. But this time, things were different.
Under new head coach Erik Chelle, the Super Eagles came prepared. Chelle went with a 4-4-2 formation. Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman led the attack, and both players delivered strong performances.
Fast Start in Kigali
Nigeria started the match on the front foot. They pressed early and looked determined to get an early goal. That moment came in the 11th minute. Lookman curled in a beautiful freekick into the box.
Osimhen timed his run perfectly and smashed the ball into the net. It was a great start for the Super Eagles and the perfect confidence booster.
Rwanda tried to settle into the game but struggled to create chances. Nigeria stayed compact and continued to dominate. Just before halftime, the Super Eagles doubled their lead.
Osimhen took advantage of a poor touch from a Rwanda defender and stole the ball. With only the goalkeeper to beat, he stayed calm and chipped the ball into the net for his second goal.
The first half ended 2-0, with Nigeria in full control. In the second half, Chelle’s men managed the game well. They didn’t take unnecessary risks and kept Rwanda quiet in attack.
The Super Eagles created more chances but couldn’t add a third goal. Still, their defensive shape was impressive. The team looked more organized, especially during set plays.
Osimhen Shines on Return
This match marked Osimhen’s return to the team after missing the first three qualifiers due to injury. He made an immediate impact with two goals and showed why he is vital to the team.
The Napoli striker now has 25 goals for Nigeria, just behind the legendary Rashidi Yekini, who scored 37. Osimhen’s hunger, movement, and finishing ability were on full display.
The star striker also arrived early to camp, showing his commitment to the national team. His presence brought energy to the squad. Nigeria’s attack looked sharper, more confident, and more dangerous with him on the pitch.
Chelle’s Tactics Make a Difference
Erik Chelle’s first game in charge was a big success. His diamond midfield worked well, giving Nigeria control in the middle of the park. It also made the team more compact while defending.
One major improvement was how Nigeria handled set pieces. Previously, they looked shaky in those situations. Against Rwanda, however, they looked dangerous and even scored from one. Defensively, they gave nothing away from corners or freekicks.
Chelle showed he can bring structure to this team. The players looked disciplined, and everyone knew their role. That’s something Nigeria had been missing in previous matches.
Next Up: Zimbabwe in Uyo
The Super Eagles now have six points and have moved up to fourth in the group. Their next game will be against Zimbabwe in Uyo. Another win could push them further up the table.
The players looked confident and united under the new coach. It’s early days for Erik Chelle, but the signs are good. His system suits the players, and the team finally looks like a unit again.
Fans have every reason to be hopeful. With Osimhen back and Chelle’s tactics working, Nigeria’s dream of reaching the 2026 World Cup is alive. There’s still a long way to go, but this win could be the turning point in the qualifiers.
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