Job not finished - Tolu Arokodare sends a strong message to South Africa

Substitute Tolu Arokodare emerged the hero on Saturday as Nigeria sealed a vital 1-0 win over Rwanda in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

The forward, introduced at halftime, struck the decisive goal in the 52nd minute with a superb finish that secured maximum points for Eric Chelle’s men.

The victory marked Nigeria’s first home win in the qualifying series and only their second triumph in seven matches so far. With the result, the Super Eagles climbed to third place in Group C on 10 points, six adrift of leaders South Africa.

Benin Republic, who edged Zimbabwe 1-0 on Friday, sit second with 11 points.

Taking to his X handle after the game, Arokodare celebrated the hard-fought win while urging focus on the bigger task against South Africa.

“Three points! We keep pushing, job’s not finished #teatime ☕️,” the striker posted.

Nigeria now shift attention to a make-or-break encounter against group leaders South Africa on Tuesday, September 9, in Bloemfontein.

The last meeting between the two sides in Uyo ended 1-1, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru grabbing the equaliser for the Super Eagles.

With qualification hopes still hanging in the balance, Arokodare’s form could prove crucial as Chelle’s men look to close the gap on Bafana Bafana.