Super Eagles Player Ratings: Nigeria Edge Rwanda in Tight World Cup Qualifier

Super Eagles Player Ratings: Nigeria Edge Rwanda in Tight World Cup Qualifier

By Admin 

The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a vital 1–0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo to keep their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive, BSNSports.com.ng reports. 

The result moved Nigeria into third place in Group C, just five points behind leaders South Africa, with two matchdays remaining.

Here’s a breakdown of how each Nigerian player performed during the closely contested fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

Player Ratings:

Stanley Nwabali – 5.0/10

The Chippa United goalkeeper had little to do in terms of shot-stopping, but his poor distribution and overly aggressive demeanor when provoked by Rwandan attackers were concerning. He looked rattled at times and didn’t inspire much confidence at the back.

Ola Aina – 6.0/10

Started slowly and struggled to impact the game in the first half, particularly with overlapping duties. Improved slightly after the break but never fully imposed himself.

Benjamin Fredrick – 6.5/10

The young defender, on loan at Brentford, stepped up well in only his second national team appearance. Showed composure on the ball and solid positioning throughout, giving Nigeria a dependable outlet from the back.

Calvin Bassey – 6.5/10

Anchored the defence with authority. The Fulham centre-back showed physical dominance and was key to Nigeria’s build-up play. A calm and commanding presence throughout.

Bruno Onyemaechi – 6.0/10

Showed attacking initiative on the left in the first half, delivering a few promising crosses. Shifted into a more conservative role after the break and handled the tactical adjustment adequately.

Wilfred Ndidi – 6.5/10

Reliable and composed, the Besiktas midfielder was a crucial shield in front of the defence. Broke up several Rwandan attacks and played the full 90 minutes, showing leadership and discipline.

Frank Onyeka – 5.0/10

Struggled to find rhythm, partially due to Nigeria’s left-flank overload that left him isolated. Substituted at halftime after an underwhelming display.

Alex Iwobi – 7.1/10 (Man of the Match)

The Fulham midfielder was Nigeria’s creative engine. Dictated tempo, picked out incisive passes, and shifted seamlessly into a deeper role in the second half. His vision and work rate were instrumental in securing the win.

Moses Simon – 6.5/10

One of Nigeria’s most dangerous attackers on the day. Beat defenders repeatedly and delivered a potential assist for Osimhen, whose goal was controversially ruled offside. Sharp and direct throughout.

Ademola Lookman – 6.0/10

Buzzed around effectively and made intelligent runs, but was wasteful in front of goal. Missed a clear opportunity and lacked the finishing edge needed to make his performance stand out.

Victor Osimhen – 5.0/10

Scored a goal that was controversially ruled offside. Suffered an injury and was substituted in the 35th minute. Largely uninvolved before the setback.

Substitutes:

Cyriel Dessers – 4.5/10

Replaced Osimhen but failed to make meaningful impact. Missed a late chance to seal the result and struggled to hold up play.

Tolu Arokodare – 7.0/10

Came on at halftime and changed the game. Showed strength, aerial ability, and composure. Scored the winning goal in the 51st minute with a determined finish. A game-changer off the bench.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 5.0/10

Replaced Lookman and added some energy to midfield, but lacked end product. His only shot was wildly off target.