Nigeria beat Rwanda 1-0 in FIFA WCQ: Arokodare's goal keeps Super Eagles' World Cup hope alive

Wolves’ new striker Tolu Arokodare emerged as the hero for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, scoring the decisive goal in a crucial 1-0 victory over Rwanda in a FIFA World Cup qualifier that keeps Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup dreams alive.

The match began with Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen finding the net in the seventh minute, but the goal was disallowed for offside. 

Shortly after, Osimhen was forced off the pitch following a series of harsh tackles from the Rwandan defence, making way for Cyriel Dessers.

Fulham’s Alex Iwobi tested Rwanda’s goalkeeper with a powerful long-range strike in the 35th minute, but it was expertly saved. The first half ended goalless.

After the interval, Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle made a key substitution, bringing on Arokodare, who recently joined Premier League side Wolves, for Frank Onyeka. 

Just five minutes later, Arokodare seized his chance, scoring his first competitive goal for Nigeria with an improvised finish inside the box after a snap effort from Ola Aina set up the opportunity.

Twelve minutes later, Rwanda’s goalkeeper made a remarkable double save to deny Nigeria a second goal, keeping the tension alive as he denied Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman, who should have scored with the goal at his mercy.

Despite pressure from the visitors, Nigeria managed to hold on for the win, securing three vital points that move them up to third place in Group C with 10 points.

However, they remain six points behind group leaders South Africa, who will host the Super Eagles next Tuesday in a highly anticipated showdown.

Arokodare’s goal and Nigeria’s resilience have injected fresh hope into their World Cup qualifying campaign as the race for 2026 intensifies.