Rwanda is aiming for their first-ever victory against Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying Group D matchday 2 clash at the Amahoro National Stadium on Tuesday.
The Super Eagles kicked off their campaign with a strong start, defeating the Republic of Benin 3-0 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday. The three-time African champions, led by interim coach Austin Eguavoen, displayed an impressive performance at the Nest of Champions. Despite a resilient defense from their neighbors in the first half, Nigeria managed to break the deadlock just before halftime with Ademola Lookman scoring a brilliant solo goal two minutes into added time.
Galatasaray striker, Victor Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 78th minute with a stunning volley, taking advantage of being left unmarked in the box. Lookman sealed the victory with a clever angled header from Moses Simon’s cross just five minutes later. This victory was particularly sweet for Nigeria, as it avenged their 2-1 loss to the Cheetahs in a World Cup qualifier in Abidjan three months earlier.
While Nigeria started strong, Rwanda showed their resilience on the road, securing a 1-1 draw against Libya in Tripoli just three days prior. Sobi Al Dawi opened the scoring for the hosts in the 16th minute, but Innocent Nshuti equalized for Rwanda early in the second half.
Rwanda has only qualified for the AFCON once, back in 2004 in Tunisia, where they did not advance past the group stage. With a record of one win, one draw, and one loss in that tournament, they are hoping to get their current campaign back on track by defeating Nigeria. In their last five meetings, Rwanda has never beaten Nigeria, suffering two defeats and drawing the other three matches.
Rwanda’s head coach, Torsten Spittler, is optimistic about their chances, particularly with the home advantage. “We know our next game against Nigeria won’t be easy, but we hope to make the best of our home advantage. Now every point counts, and this draw with Libya brings us more confidence,” Spittler stated in an interview with The New Times. Since Spittler’s appointment in November, Rwanda has been in good form, losing just once while winning and drawing three matches each in their last seven outings. They will be hoping to extend their unbeaten run to three matches when they face Nigeria, who are likely to have Osimhen back in the starting lineup.
Osimhen, who was instrumental off the bench against Benin, is expected to lead the Eagles’ attack. Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is also in contention for a starting spot after his impressive performance against the Republic of Benin.
Nigeria’s victory over Gernot Rohr’s side on Saturday ended a three-match winless streak, putting them at the top of Group D. Ahead of the match against Rwanda, interim coach Augustine Eguavoen expressed confidence in his team’s ability to secure another win.
“Our country has high expectations; no matter who we play, they expect us to win. We respect our opponents, but we will get the results. They respect us too; you can’t underestimate anyone these days because football has improved, and if you’re not careful, you can be surprised. We will stay focused, but remember, anyone playing against Nigeria always tries to step up their game, so we have to be ready,” Eguavoen said.
Today’s match will be a crucial test for Nigeria, who have struggled on the road recently. Eguavoen will be aiming to guide his team to another victory and solidify their position at the top of Group D.
