The Super Eagles of Nigeria marked a new era under head coach Éric Sékou Chelle with a 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali, as Victor Osimhen delivered a standout performance with two first-half goals.
This win gives Nigeria a much-needed boost in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, following a shaky start in their previous matches.
Nigeria wasted no time asserting dominance, pinning Rwanda in their defensive half. The breakthrough came early when Moses Simon was fouled near the penalty area. Ademola Lookman stepped up to deliver a perfect cross, which Osimhen volleyed home with precision.
Despite Rwanda’s attempt to fight back towards the end of the first half, Nigeria struck again just before the break. Osimhen capitalized on a defensive lapse, outrunning his marker before chipping the ball over the goalkeeper for his second goal of the night.
Osimhen’s Leadership and Record-Breaking Feat
Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Osimhen demonstrated tremendous leadership, tracking back to help defensively and urging his teammates to maintain intensity. His performance moved him into second place on Nigeria’s all-time goal-scorers list, surpassing Segun Odegbami with 25 international goals. He is now just 12 goals behind Rashidi Yekini’s legendary 37-goal record.
After the match, Osimhen expressed his determination:
“I am very happy for the goals. Now the focus is on Zimbabwe so we keep going.”
Chelle’s Tactical Influence and Game Management
New head coach Éric Chelle made some bold tactical choices in his debut, including starting Ola Aina at left-back over the natural choice, Bruno Onyemaechi. Despite early positional adjustments, Nigeria eventually settled into a 4-2-3-1 formation, maximizing their attacking threat.
Chelle also managed his substitutions well, removing key players like Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, and Samuel Chukwueze in preparation for the upcoming fixture against Zimbabwe.
With their World Cup qualification hopes now back on track, the Super Eagles must sustain their newfound intensity. Their next test comes against Zimbabwe, where another win will strengthen their position in the group.
With Osimhen in top form and Chelle’s tactical acumen taking shape, Nigerian fans have renewed optimism that the Super Eagles can soar once again.
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