2026 WCQ: Arokodare’s goal earn Nigeria crucial win over Rwanda

By Emmanuel Okogba

Tolu Arokodare’s 51st minute goal earned Nigeria a much needed win over Rwanda to continue the pursuit for a spot in next year’s FIFA World Cup.

Arokodare who came in as a substitute at the beginning of the second half, capitalised on a mix-up in the Rwandan box to flick home the winner which went in after crashing against the crossbar.

The win lifts Nigeria into third position in Group C with 10 points – one below Benin Republic and six behind group leaders and next opponent, South Africa.

Despite dominating throughout, Eric Chelle’s side found it difficult creating chances and Victor Osimhen’s injury in the 35th minute summed up what was a worrying first half for both players and spectators.

The Galatasaray forward had found the back of the net earlier but his effort was correctly ruled out for being in an offside position.

Efforts from Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi also failed to break a resilient Amavubi side.

Arokodare’s introduction at the commencement of the second half proved the game changer as his hold-up play gave room for Simon and Lookman to run behind the Rwandan defence to create opportunities to cross in and cut-backs.

The post 2026 WCQ: Arokodare’s goal earn Nigeria crucial win over Rwanda appeared first on Vanguard News.