Arokodare’s goal against Rwanda revives Nigeria’s World Cup dream

Tolu Arokodare scored a second half winner to give Nigeria a 1-0 win over Rwanda in their Group A World Cup qualifier encounter at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Saturday.

‎The new Wolverhampton Wanderers striker made the difference as Super Eagles defeated Rwanda to claim all three points that revived Nigeria’s qualification hopes.

Coach Eric Chelle benched captain William Ekong, while the usual trio of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Moses led the attack.

Nigeria started brightly but Osimhen’s goal from Lookman’s pass on eight minutes was ruled out for offside.

The Super Eagles continued to create chances with Simon going close twice, while Iwobi tested Fiacre Ntwari, Rwanda goalkeeper, from long range.

Osimhen however succumbed to injury and was replaced by Cyril Dessers in the 36th minute, but the half petered out as both sides went into the break goalless.

Arokodare was introduced at the start of the second half in a tactical switch and the towering striker put Nigeria ahead on 51 minutes, blasting into the net from a yard out to hand Nigeria a 1-0 lead.

Ntwari made a double save to deny Simon and Lookman minutes later as the Eagles probed for more goals.

The visitors threatened in the late stages but the Super Eagles stayed resolute to claim all three points.

The win is Nigeria’s first in six matches since a 2-0 at Rwanda on matchday 2 of the qualifiers.

Nigeria also moved above Rwanda to third position with 10 points from seven matches, one point behind second-placed Benin Republic.

They remain six points behind group leaders South Africa whom they visit in another must-win match on September 9.