Nigeria Revives 2026 World Cup Hopes with 1-0 Win over Rwanda

Nigeria's Super Eagles revived their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes with a crucial 1-0 win over Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, thanks to a 51st-minute goal by substitute Tolu Arokodare. Despite losing star striker Victor Osimhen to injury early in the match, Nigeria's defense held firm and the team maintained pressure to secure the victory, moving them to third place in Group C with 10 points. The win places them behind South Africa, who lead the group with 16 points, and Benin Republic with 11 points, making their upcoming fixture against South Africa critical for automatic qualification. Nigeria missed the 2022 World Cup and now must win their remaining matches, including against South Africa, Lesotho, and Benin, to either top the group or qualify for the African play-offs. Fans expressed both relief at the win and concern over Osimhen's injury, highlighting the intensity of Nigeria's pursuit of a World Cup spot. The team adjusted its lineup for the qualifier, with captain William Troost-Ekong starting on the bench and Wilfred Ndidi expected to captain the side.