Nigeria’s Super Eagles revived their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali on Friday.

Victor Osimhen’s first-half brace secured Nigeria’s first win in the qualifiers, earning them three crucial points. The Galatasaray striker opened the scoring in the 11th minute, expertly connecting with an in-swinging free kick from reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, to beat the Rwandan goalkeeper.

Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s lead in first-half stoppage time with a solo effort, winning possession in midfield before surging forward and delicately chipping the ball over the advancing goalkeeper.

The victory lifted Nigeria from fifth to fourth in the Group C standings, with six points—one behind Rwanda, two behind second-placed Benin Republic, and four adrift of leaders South Africa, who top the table with ten points.

Despite the win, the Super Eagles still face a tough challenge in securing an automatic qualification spot. However, the match against Rwanda marked a positive start for new head coach Eric Chelle.

The Malian tactician fielded a strong squad, with Osimhen and Lookman leading the attack, supported by Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon. Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City and Fulham’s Alex Iwobi controlled the midfield, while Calvin Bassey and William Troost-Ekong anchored the defence. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was between the sticks, with Bright Osayi-Samuel completing the starting eleven.

Nigeria will host Zimbabwe in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday, aiming to secure another three points and climb further up the table.