UYO, Nigeria – Substitute Tolu Arokodare scored five minutes after coming on to secure a vital 1-0 victory for Nigeria over Rwanda in World Cup qualifying on Saturday, reigniting the Super Eagles’ hopes of reaching the 2026 tournament.
The newly signed Wolverhampton Wanderers forward pounced on a rebound after Ola Aina’s initial effort was saved by Rwanda goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, slotting home decisively in the 50th minute at a tense Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
Nigeria had dominated proceedings but saw an early Victor Osimhen goal ruled out for offside and lost the Napoli striker to injury in the 35th minute following a heavy challenge. Despite creating numerous chances through Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi, the Super Eagles struggled to break down a resilient Rwandan defense until Arokodare’s intervention.
The victory moves Nigeria to third place in their qualifying group with 10 points from seven matches, keeping them within striking distance of leaders Benin Republic and South Africa. Rwanda, who had expressed confidence pre-match about replicating their previous victory in Uyo, offered limited attacking threat but pressed late in the game, forcing Nigeria to bring on defensive reinforcements to secure the result.
The win provides crucial momentum for Nigeria’s qualifying campaign ahead of their next fixture, while Rwanda’s hopes now hang in the balance despite their previously strong position in the group.
