Victor Osimhen’s return to the Super Eagles has reignited Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying hopes. The Napoli-owned striker, who missed the first four qualifiers, announced his comeback in style with a brace against Rwanda, securing Nigeria’s first win of the campaign.
The West African giants had struggled in front of goal during his absence, failing to convert their dominance into results. But in Kigali, Osimhen showed exactly why he remains the team's most valuable asset.
His movement, physicality, and finishing ability turned the tide for Nigeria, and with five qualifiers remaining, his influence could be the difference between qualification and another World Cup heartbreak
Zimbabwe is up next, and Osimhen’s presence will once again be crucial as the Super Eagles push for another three points.
Osimhen is key to Eric Chelle's intense pressing game
The 26-year-old’s tireless running and relentless pressing put fear into defenses, and that was evident in Kigali as he bagged two goals to lead Nigeria past Rwanda. His energy off the ball disrupted Rwanda’s buildup play, setting the tone for Chelle’s high-intensity approach.
For his first game in charge, Chelle set up Nigeria in a 4-4-2 diamond formation, prioritizing attacking intent while allowing the fullbacks to push forward. The setup worked well, as the team created numerous chances, though there were some gaps in midfield that Rwanda attempted to exploit.
Given the positive result, the coach has decided not to change a winning team, meaning Osimhen and Lookman will continue their strike partnership up front.
Nigeria vs Zimbabwe confirmed lineups
Nigeria’s confirmed lineup
Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
Defenders: Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze,
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen
Zimbabwe’spredicted lineup
Goalkeeper: Washington Arubi
Defenders: Emmanuel Jalai, Munashe Garananga, Gerald Takwara, Divine Lunga
Midfielders: Marshall Munetsi, Andy Rinomhota, Knowledge Musona, Jordan Zemura
Forwards: Khama Billiat, Prince Dube
Nigeria and Zimbabwe have faced off eight times, with the Super Eagles holding a superior record of four wins, three draws, and just one defeat. The hosts remain unbeaten in their last seven meetings against the Warriors, further boosting their confidence ahead of this fixture.
A win for Chelle and his boys would edge them closer to the top of Group C, while Zimbabwe, still searching for their first victory in this qualifying campaign, faces a tough task in their bid to keep their World Cup hopes alive. With Osimhen leading the charge, the Super Eagles will be determined to maintain their momentum.
