Osimhen Scores Twice as Nigeria Secures Vital 3 Points in WCQ

Victor Osimhen, named Africa’s best player in 2023, scored two goals to lead Nigeria to a 2-0 victory over Rwanda on Friday, March 21, 2025, in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, Rwanda.

Super Eagles Coach Éric Chelle

The Galatasaray striker opened the scoring just 11 minutes into the match, converting a well-placed free kick from fellow Nigerian star Ademola Lookman. Just as Rwanda seemed to gain momentum, Osimhen cleverly intercepted the ball in midfield and sprinted into the 18-yard box to score his second goal just before halftime.

In the second half, Nigeria maintained their lead and secured their first three points and clean sheet of the World Cup qualifiers campaign.

Nigeria’s Second-Highest Scorer Victor Osimhen (25) – Photo Credit: Sulaiman Adebayo

Osimhen’s performance brings his total to 25 goals for Nigeria, surpassing Segun Odegbami’s 23 goals and closing in on Rashidi Yekini, the country’s all-time top scorer, who has 37 goals.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria in celebratory mode after Osimhen’s goal in Matchday 5 of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. – Photo Credit: Sulaiman Adebayo

This victory marked Nigeria’s first win of the qualifiers, moving them up to fourth place in their group and reigniting hopes for World Cup qualification. The Éric Chelle-led side will aim to replicate this victory when they host Zimbabwe for their next World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, March 25, at 5 PM at Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria.