2026 WCQ: Dessers becomes cap-tied to Nigeria and four other observations from win v Wasps

Nigeria earned a hard-fought 1-0 win over Rwanda on Saturday to keep their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying hopes alive.

Substitute Tolu Arokodare netted the decisive goal early in the second half.

The victory lifted Nigeria to 10 points and third place in Group C, six points adrift of leaders South Africa.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the match.

Chelle drops Troost-Ekong, starts Frederick

Super Eagles goalkeeper Eric Chelle made a bold decision in the starting lineup, dropping captain William Troost-Ekong and giving youngster Benjamin Frederick his competitive debut for Nigeria.

The young defender justified the coaches decision with a solid performance at the heart of defense helping Nigeria play from the back seemlessly.

Nwabali escapes red card

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali narrowly escaped a red card after an altercation with Fitina Omborenga.

Following a collision, Nwabali repeatedly pushed and shoved the forward, prompting the referee to halt play and issue yellow cards to both players.

Despite the caution, the Nigerian shot-stopper continued with several risky antics afterward but managed to avoid further punishment from the officials.

Osimhen suffers injury as Dessers makes competitive debut

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen was forced off in the first half after sustaining an injury, with Cyriel Dessers coming on to make his competitive debut for the national team.

The former Rangers forward, who was born in Belgium, is now officially cap-tied to Nigeria after featuring in eight previous friendlies for the three-time African champions.

Osimhen could not shake off the effects of a heavy tackle and was later spotted on the bench with ice strapped to his ankle.

Fiacre Ntwari brilliant in goal

Ntwari once again delivered a brilliant performance in goal for Rwanda, preventing Nigeria from extending their lead.

The goalkeeper made several crucial saves, particularly in the second half, to ensure Nigeria scored only once.

Tolu Arokodare makes the difference

Arokodare finally announced himself on the international stage, scoring the decisive goal that sealed Nigeria's victory.

The new Wolverhampton Wanderers striker made an instant impact after coming on in the second half.

The 24-year-old used his height and clever movement to trouble the Rwandan defence and help the Super Eagles break their resilience.

Adeyemi Adewale

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