Victor Osimhen brace powers Nigeria to 2-0 win over Rwanda in World Cup Qualifier

Nigeria strengthened their World Cup qualification campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Rwanda in a CAF Group C encounter on Friday, thanks to a brace from star striker Victor Osimhen.

The Super Eagles took an early lead in the 11th minute when Osimhen expertly finished a precise cross from Ademola Lookman.

The Napoli forward struck again in first-half stoppage time (45+3’), doubling Nigeria’s advantage and giving them firm control before the break.

The match saw intense action, with Rwanda’s D. Bizimana receiving a yellow card in the 46th minute, while Nigeria’s Wilfred Ndidi was also booked three minutes later. Despite Rwanda’s efforts to mount a comeback, the Super Eagles maintained their dominance and secured a crucial three points.

Rwanda controlled 45% of possession but struggled to find a breakthrough, registering only two shots on target. Nigeria, in contrast, had three shots on goal and won eight corner kicks, asserting their attacking dominance.

With this result, Nigeria moves to fourth place in Group C with six points from five matches, keeping their qualification hopes alive. South Africa leads the group with 10 points, followed by Benin (8 points) and Rwanda (7 points).

The Super Eagles will now shift their focus to their upcoming fixtures as they push for a spot in the next phase of the qualification campaign.