Éric Chelle tenure as Nigeria’s Super Eagles coach began with a 2-0 victory over Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the team’s first win of the campaign.
The match saw Victor Osimhen return to the squad, scoring two goals, while Nigeria kept a clean sheet to kick off Chelle’s reign with a statement performance.
Nigeria dominated early in Kigali, forcing Rwanda into their defensive third. Their early pressure paid off when Moses Simon was fouled at the edge of the penalty box.
Ademola Lookman delivered a precise free-kick to the far post, where Osimhen timed his run perfectly and volleyed home to give the Super Eagles the lead.
Rwanda responded towards the end of the first half, pushing forward in search of an equalizer.
However, this left them exposed at the back, and Osimhen capitalized on a defensive mismatch to score his second goal just before halftime, effectively sealing the win for Nigeria.
Osimhen’s Impact: A Timely Return
The absence of Victor Osimhen in Nigeria’s earlier qualifiers had been felt, as the team struggled in front of goal, scoring just one goal in each of their first four games.
The Galatasaray striker wasted no time proving his worth, taking just 11 minutes to put Nigeria ahead.
His first goal was a masterclass in positional awareness and finishing, as he waited for Lookman’s free-kick before guiding home a half-volley at the far post.
His second goal showcased his determination and technique—winning the ball off a defender with an outstretched toe, sprinting clear, and delicately chipping the ball over the onrushing Rwandan goalkeeper.
Beyond scoring, Osimhen led by example, tracking back to help defensively and motivating his teammates.
He was seen urging Ademola Lookman to quickly retreat after a dead-ball situation, a testament to his leadership on the field.
Osimhen’s brace also cemented his place in Nigeria’s all-time goal-scoring chart, as he moved into sole second place with 25 goals, surpassing Segun Odegbami (23 goals). He now trails Nigeria’s all-time top scorer Rashidi Yekini (37 goals) by 12 goals.
“I am very happy for the goals. Now the focus is on Zimbabwe so we keep going,” Osimhen said post-match.
Éric Chelle Tactical Approach: Signs of a New Era?
With Nigeria facing immense pressure after a poor start to their World Cup qualifying campaign, Chelle’s Super Eagles delivered an intense, disciplined performance that combined high pressing, physicality, and defensive resilience.
Aggressive start: Nigeria pinned Rwanda deep in their half from the opening whistle, denying them space and forcing mistakes.
Defensive solidity: Despite a brief spell of Rwandan pressure before halftime, the Super Eagles remained organized, allowing just one shot on target in the first 40 minutes.
Tactical discipline: Nigeria were willing to fight, as seen in yellow cards for Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Tolu Arokodare—a sign of their commitment to defending aggressively.
Chelle’s game management was also spot on.
Éric Chelle made a bold decision by starting Ola Aina at left-back instead of Bruno Onyemaechi, a move that may have caught Rwanda off guard.
Tactical adjustment: Initially, Samuel Chukwueze was played in an unfamiliar midfield diamond role, which affected his effectiveness. Chelle quickly switched to a 4-2-3-1, moving Chukwueze out wide, and Nigeria looked more comfortable.
Key substitutions: Recognizing the need to manage fitness for the next game, Chelle rested Osimhen, Iwobi, and Chukwueze in the second half. He also showed tactical flexibility by deploying Alhassan Yusuf as an emergency right-back when Bright Osayi-Samuel went off injured.
A Promising Start, but More Work Ahead
This result provides a confidence boost for Nigeria as they seek to climb back into World Cup qualification contention. However, the Super Eagles still have a long road ahead, starting with their next clash against Zimbabwe.
The win against Rwanda showed glimpses of what Chelle’s Nigeria could become—a hardworking, tactically disciplined team that combines attacking flair with defensive solidity.
If they can maintain this momentum, their World Cup hopes remain very much alive.
