By Olatunbosun Obafemi
The Super Eagles of Nigeria kept their World Cup dream alive on Saturday with a tense 1–0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo, a result that steadied nerves after an unconvincing start to their qualifying campaign.
The match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium had been billed as a must-win for Nigeria, who entered the fixture under immense pressure to collect maximum points in all their remaining qualifiers. The players had promised before kickoff that they would rise to the occasion, but the opening stages told a different story. While the Eagles dominated possession, their final ball often let them down, and genuine chances were few.
Victor Osimhen carried Nigeria’s biggest threat early on, testing Rwanda’s goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari with a deflected shot and then finding the net moments later, only to see his effort chalked off for offside. The Napoli striker’s evening turned sour when he pulled up after a heavy challenge. Though he initially tried to continue, Osimhen was soon replaced by Cyriel Dessers, dealing the team a heavy blow and dampening the atmosphere in the stadium.
Dessers worked tirelessly but was starved of service as Nigeria labored to break down a resolute Rwandan defense. By halftime, the scoreline remained goalless, and frustration grew among the home fans.
Coach Eric Chelle responded decisively after the restart, sending on Tolu Arokodare for Frank Onyeka, and the tactical shift paid off. Nigeria began to attack with greater urgency, forcing errors in Rwanda’s backline. The breakthrough finally arrived when Arokodare reacted quickest in a crowded penalty area, prodding the ball over the line to spark relief and celebration in the stands.
Rwanda pressed for an equalizer in the closing minutes, but Nigeria’s defense stood firm. The final whistle confirmed a narrow but priceless victory, one that keeps the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes alive. The performance was far from convincing, yet the result may prove the turning point Nigeria desperately needed.
