Nigeria beat Rwanda to boost 2026 World Cup qualification hopes

The Super Eagles of Nigeria kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Rwanda on Saturday.

After a cagey first half in Kigali, substitute striker Tolu Arokodare emerged as the hero, breaking the deadlock in the 51st minute with a clinical finish that proved to be the difference between the two sides.

Despite creating several chances, Nigeria struggled to assert full dominance, but their resilience ensured they secured maximum points away from home. The win comes as a major boost after a run of inconsistent results that had placed the team under pressure in the race for a World Cup ticket.

With the victory, Nigeria moved up to third place in Group C with 10 points from seven matches. Group leaders South Africa maintain their grip on top spot with 16 points, while Benin Republic sit second on 11 points. Rwanda, who began the day level on points with Nigeria, dropped to fourth with 8 points.

Group C Standings (After Matchday 7)

1. South Africa – 16 pts (W5, D1, L1, GD +8)

2. Benin – 11 pts (W3, D2, L2, GD 0)

3. Nigeria – 10 pts (W2, D4, L1, GD +2)

4. Rwanda – 8 pts (W2, D2, L3, GD -1)

5. Lesotho – 6 pts (W1, D3, L3, GD -4)

6. Zimbabwe – 4 pts (W0, D4, L3, GD -5)

The Super Eagles still face a tough task with only three matches left in the qualifiers, but the crucial away victory over Rwanda ensures they remain firmly in contention for a place at the global showpiece.