Super Eagles defeated Rwanda 1-0 thanks to Tolu Arokodare’s decisive goal.
Victor Osimhen had an early effort disallowed.
Nigeria must keep winning to stay in the World Cup race.
Super Eagles forward Tolu Arokodare’s second-half strike kept Nigeria’s slim 2026 World Cup hopes alive as the hosts beat Rwanda 1-0 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
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The Wolves striker reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box and tucked home in the 51st minute to break a stubborn deadlock.
Nigeria dominated possession for long spells but struggled to turn pressure into clear-cut chances.
Early on Victor Osimhen thought he had put the hosts ahead, only for the flag to cut short the celebration; replays suggested the striker was onside, but VAR was not in use at the stadium.
Consequently, the goal stood ruled out and the game remained tightly poised.
During the game, Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle made tactical adjustments, one of which was the introduction of Arokodare, whose influence was crucial.
Meanwhile, Rwanda goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari produced a number of smart stops to keep his side in the contest before the decisive moment arrived.
Despite the close scoreline, Nigeria’s victory saw them climb the group table and keep faint qualification hopes alive as they prepare for their next tough test against South Africa.
This win gives the Super Eagles fresh momentum, but the road to North America remains difficult: only the group winner earns direct passage and results elsewhere in Group C mean Nigeria must keep winning and hope for favourable outcomes.
For now, fans can take heart that the team showed fight and found a match-winner when it mattered.
