Victor Osimhen’s brace ensured Nigeria defeated Rwanda 2-0 comfortably at the Amahoro Stadium in their World Cup qualifier on Friday evening.

The victory was crucial for the Super Eagles as they climbed to fourth in the Group C standings, aiming to revive their campaign and qualify for the international showpiece set to be hosted in North America next year.

Nigeria was firmly in control from the outset, dominating possession and dictating play. Their breakthrough came early, in the 11th minute, when Ademola Lookman’s free kick from the wing found Osimhen, who knocked it into the net from close range.

Another opportunity arose as play continued, with Lookman and Osimhen linking up once again to put Moses Simon through on goal. However, Rwanda’s goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari, made a crucial save in the 25th minute to deny them.

With Lookman proving particularly troublesome on the wing, the Amavubi defence worked tirelessly to keep the Atalanta forward at bay. Towards the end of the first half, the hosts began to gain confidence on the ball, but their momentum was short-lived as the Super Eagles defended resolutely.

Osimhen completed his brace on the stroke of half-time, lurking behind the last defender before chipping the ball over Ntwari to find the back of the net once again.

At the start of the second half, Rwanda conceded a free kick in a dangerous area. Lookman stepped up and went for goal, but Ntwari was alert to deny the in-form forward.

Rwanda’s Bonheur Mugisha had the home team’s first convincing opportunity in the 53rd minute, but Super Eagles’ goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made a vital save.

The visitors continued their search for a third goal, but the Rwandans held firm to avoid conceding again.