Victor Osimhen delivered a stunning performance, scoring twice, as Nigeria defeated Rwanda 2-0 in a World Cup qualifier on Friday night. The match, held at the Amahoro Stadium, marked a crucial step for the Super Eagles in Group C.
The victory lifted Nigeria to fourth place in the standings, revitalizing their hopes of reaching next year’s World Cup in North America.
From the start, the Super Eagles controlled the game with confident possession and strategic play.
The breakthrough came early. In the 11th minute, Ademola Lookman’s pinpoint freekick connected with Osimhen, who calmly slotted the ball in from close range. It was a goal that set the tone for Nigeria’s dominance.
The Lookman-Osimhen partnership continued to flourish. They orchestrated a chance for Moses Simon, but Rwanda’s goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari made a crucial save in the 25th minute to keep the scoreline narrow.
Lookman remained a constant threat on the wing, forcing Rwanda’s defense into overdrive. While the Amavubi began to settle towards the end of the half, Nigeria’s backline stood firm against their advances.
Just before halftime, Osimhen struck again. Evading the last defender with precision, he chipped the ball over Ntwari, doubling Nigeria’s lead in style.
In the second half, Nigeria continued to press. A dangerous freekick from Lookman tested Ntwari, but the Rwandan keeper was alert and made a solid save.
Rwanda’s Bonheur Mugisha came close to scoring in the 53rd minute, but Stanley Nwabali, Nigeria’s goalkeeper, denied him. Despite their efforts, Rwanda couldn’t find a breakthrough, and Nigeria secured a deserved victory.
