By: News Masters
Date: September 6, 2026
Nigeria kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes alive on Saturday with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The decisive moment came in the 51st minute when Tolu Arokodare latched onto a precise pass from Ola Aina and calmly slotted home to put the Super Eagles in front. The goal, which capped a sustained spell of Nigerian pressure, stood without a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review.
Rwanda, determined to respond, piled forward in search of an equaliser. They forced goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali into several key saves, including a crucial stop from a powerful header. At the other end, Rwanda’s shot-stopper Ntwari Fiacre denied Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman to keep his side in contention.
Coach Eric Chelle made timely substitutions, bringing on Fisayo Dele-Bashiru for Lookman in the 75th minute, while Nigeria’s earlier switch, introducing Arokodare for Onyeka, proved decisive. Rwanda also reshuffled, but their efforts fell short against Nigeria’s disciplined backline marshalled by Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, and Igoh Ogbu.
Midfield trio Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka dictated much of the play, ensuring the Super Eagles maintained control in key moments.
The victory lifts Nigeria to seven points in Group C, placing them fourth. Rwanda, despite the loss, remain second with eight points, while South Africa lead with sixteen. Only group winners, alongside one playoff qualifier, will secure a place at the 2026 World Cup.
Nigeria now face a decisive clash against South Africa in Bloemfontein, where maximum points will be vital to keep their qualification dream alive. With Group C tightly contested, every fixture remains crucial as Rwanda, Benin, and Zimbabwe continue to press for top spots.
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