Super Eagles secured a vital 1-0 victory against Rwanda on Saturday evening at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, boosting their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Substitute Tolu Arokodare proved to be the hero, scoring the decisive goal just five minutes after coming on at the start of the second half. The new Wolverhampton Wanderers forward reacted quickest to slot the ball home after Ola Aina’s initial effort was saved by Rwanda’s impressive goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari.
The Super Eagles began the match with an offensive mindset, but were unable to find a breakthrough in the first half. A goal by Victor Osimhen in the seventh minute was ruled out for offside. The team suffered a setback later in the half when Osimhen was forced off due to an injury.
Despite Rwanda’s increased pressure, the Nigerian defense held firm, and the introduction of new players in the second half helped to secure the win. The victory moves Nigeria to third place in their group with 10 points from seven matches, just behind Benin Republic and South Africa.
The Super Eagles now face a crucial match on Tuesday as they travel to Bloemfontein to take on South Africa in what is being billed as a must-win showdown.
