Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a vital 2-0 victory over Rwanda in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on March 21, 2025, at Kigali’s Amahoro Stadium, marking their...

Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a vital 2-0 victory over Rwanda in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on March 21, 2025, at Kigali’s Amahoro Stadium, marking their first win in the campaign. Victor Osimhen’s first-half brace—his 24th and 25th goals for Nigeria—proved decisive, as the team rebounded from a shocking 2-1 loss to Rwanda in November 2024. Under new coach Éric Chelle, Nigeria’s lineup featured Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze, with Osimhen scoring in the 11th and 45+2nd minutes.

The Vanguard reports that the win lifts Nigeria to 5th in Group C, though they remain behind leaders Rwanda (7 points), South Sudan (7 points), and Burkina Faso (6 points). Rwanda, previously unbeaten in three matches against Nigeria, conceded two goals for the first time in the qualifiers. The result revives Nigeria’s qualification hopes after a disastrous start (D3, L1). Chelle’s tactical adjustments, including Lookman’s pinpoint deliveries and Osimhen’s clinical finishing, paid dividends. However, Nigeria’s defensive frailties—exposed in earlier draws—were mitigated by goalkeeper Nwabali’s saves and a disciplined midfield.

Fans and analysts celebrated the win as a turning point. Social media erupted with praise for Osimhen’s “world-class” performance, while Chelle’s debut was hailed as a success. However, critics noted Rwanda’s lack of attacking threat, urging Nigeria to replicate this form against stronger Group C rivals. While Nigeria’s win narrows the gap, South Sudan and Burkina Faso remain ahead. South Sudan’s 3-2 victory over Rwanda in December 2024 highlights their unpredictability, while Burkina Faso’s defensive solidity contrasts with Nigeria’s earlier struggles. Rwanda’s defeat underscores their reliance on home advantage, as they failed to replicate their November 2024 upset.

The victory underscores Osimhen’s irreplaceable role and Chelle’s tactical acumen. However, consistency against top-tier opponents will define their qualification fate. With matches against Burkina Faso and South Sudan looming, the Super Eagles must sustain this momentum to avoid missing a third consecutive World Cup.