Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a vital 1–0 victory over Rwanda on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, reigniting their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The win marked Nigeria’s first home triumph in the qualifying series and lifted them to third place in Group C with 10 points from seven matches1.
The match-winner came courtesy of Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare, who scored in the 51st minute after coming on as a second-half substitute. His goal followed a scrappy buildup, with Arokodare reacting quickest to a loose ball in the box. The Super Eagles had earlier thought they had taken the lead in the eighth minute when Victor Osimhen found the net, but the effort was ruled offside1.
Rwanda’s goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari was in inspired form, making several crucial saves to keep the scoreline respectable. He denied Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Wilfred Ndidi in quick succession, frustrating Nigeria’s attacking efforts throughout the match.
Despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, Nigeria struggled to convert their superiority into goals. Osimhen was forced off with a shin injury in the first half, raising concerns ahead of their next fixture against group leaders South Africa.
With South Africa sitting atop the group with 16 points, Nigeria’s upcoming clash in Bloemfontein is shaping up to be a decisive encounter. The Super Eagles must win to stay in contention for a spot at the World Cup, making Tuesday’s match a high-stakes showdown.
