Arokodare fires Nigeria past Rwanda to keep World Cup dream alive
Nigeria kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes alive with a narrow 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday.
New Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare came off the bench to score the decisive goal six minutes into the second half at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
The win lifts the Super Eagles to third in Group C, leapfrogging Rwanda but still six points adrift of leaders South Africa, who they face in a crucial qualifier in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.
Nigeria, who failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, know they must defeat Bafana Bafana to stay in contention for the group’s sole automatic ticket. Their hopes could also be boosted if FIFA rules against South Africa, who risk losing points over allegations of fielding an ineligible player in March.
Eric Chelle’s men had struggled for consistency in the qualifiers, winning just once in their opening six matches. Against Rwanda, they thought they had an early lead through Victor Osimhen, only for the goal to be ruled offside. The striker would later limp off injured in the 34th minute, adding to Nigeria’s concerns ahead of the clash with South Africa.
Nigeria pressed for a breakthrough, with Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi forcing saves from Rwanda’s goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, but it was Arokodare who finally broke the deadlock after a scrappy goalmouth exchange.
The Super Eagles had further chances to extend their lead, while Rwanda threatened late on, but Nigeria held firm to secure all three points.
With three rounds of qualifiers left, the team could also still qualify through the play-offs as one of the four best second-placed sides if they miss out on top spot.
