Osimhen breaks record, secures Nigeria’s first 2026 World Cup Qualifying win over Rwanda
Nigeria recorded their first victory in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Friday, defeating Rwanda 2-0 at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, with Victor Osimhen’s first-half brace sealing the win.
The Galatasaray striker marked his return to the qualifiers in style, scoring twice before halftime to take his national team tally to 25 goals.
In doing so, he surpassed Segun Odegbami to become Nigeria’s second all-time top scorer, trailing only the late Rashidi Yekini.
Osimhen, who initially caused concern after falling on his hands in the opening minute, opened the scoring in the 11th minute.
He latched onto a well-delivered free-kick from Ademola Lookman and converted with a precise touch at the far post. He then doubled Nigeria’s lead just before halftime, outpacing a defender before slotting the ball past Rwanda’s goalkeeper.
The second half saw fewer chances, with Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali barely tested. It was also a victorious debut for coach Eric Chelle, whose reign began with Nigeria’s first win over Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in 20 years.
Despite the victory, Nigeria only moved up to fourth place in Group C with six points from five matches, trailing Rwanda (third, seven points), Benin Republic (second, eight points), and leaders South Africa (10 points).
With their World Cup hopes hanging in the balance, the Super Eagles must win their remaining games.
Their next challenge comes on Tuesday against Zimbabwe, who sit at the bottom of the group with three points, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
