Osimhen’s brace secures win for Nigeria over Rwanda

By Olaolu Joseph

Nigeria boosted its World Cup qualification hopes with a 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali on Friday.

Victor Osimhen scored twice in the first half to secure all three points for the Super Eagles in Eric Sekou Chelle’s debut game as head coach.

Osimhen opened the scoring in the 11th minute, tapping in a well-placed free-kick from Ademola Lookman to give Nigeria an early lead. The Napoli striker then doubled the advantage in the final minute of the first half with a clinical finish.

The Super Eagles controlled the second half to seal the win, ensuring a strong start under Chelle’s management.

Nigeria now has six points from five matches, trailing group leaders South Africa by four points, as they continue their push for a spot in the 2026 World Cup.

The team will now shift focus to their next qualifier, where they will host Zimbabwe on Tuesday, March 25, at 5 p.m. at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.