Nigeria beat Rwanda 1-0, but Victor Osimhen’s injury could jeopardize their World Cup qualification hopes.
Nigeria kept their FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive with a 1-0 win over Rwanda at the weekend, but star striker Victor Osimhen’s injury threatens to derail their campaign. The Galatasaray forward was forced off in the first half and, according to coach Eric Sekou Chelle, will miss Tuesday’s decisive clash against South Africa. Reports indicate Osimhen did not travel to Bloemfontein.
The Super Eagles moved up to third in their group with 10 points, six behind leaders South Africa, who beat Lesotho 2-0. Benin Republic, coached by former Nigeria boss Gernot Rohr, sit second after a 1-0 victory over Zimbabwe.
Tolu Arokodare provided the game’s decisive moment, scoring his second international goal and impressing with his aerial strength and hold-up play. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, however, risked dismissal after clashes with Rwandan players.
With three qualifiers left, Nigeria must win all to secure a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.