The Super Eagles of Nigeria have turned their attention to their next World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe after a crucial 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali on Friday.
Victor Osimhen was the star of the game, scoring twice in the first half to secure Nigeria’s second win in the qualifiers. His first goal came in the 11th minute, finishing off a precise free-kick from Ademola Lookman.
He doubled the lead in stoppage time of the first half with a brilliant solo effort, winning the ball in midfield before dribbling past defenders and calmly chipping the ball over the goalkeeper.
The win pushed Nigeria to fourth place in Group C with six points, behind South Africa (10 points), Benin Republic (8 points), and Rwanda (7 points). The Eagles will now aim for another victory when they host Zimbabwe in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday.
The game against Rwanda was the first test for new coach Eric Chelle, and he passed it with a solid performance from his team.
The Malian tactician fielded a strong lineup, with Osimhen, Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon leading the attack. In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi controlled the game, while Stanley Nwabali was in goal, supported by defenders Calvin Bassey, William Troost-Ekong, and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
With the next match coming up quickly, Chelle has urged his players to stay focused. “We are happy with the win, but we have to prepare well for Zimbabwe. Every game is important in this qualification race,” he said.
Following the team’s victory, Nigerian Breweries Plc, through its brands—Goldberg, Life Continental, and Zagg Energy Drink—congratulated the players for their performance.
Wasiu Ola Abiola, from the company’s PR and Sponsorships unit, said, “We at Nigerian Breweries are immensely proud of the Super Eagles for their stellar performance against Rwanda. This victory is a testament to the hard work, teamwork, and passion that define Nigerian football.”
The Super Eagles will now focus on securing three more points against Zimbabwe as they continue their push for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
