Nigeria’s Super Eagles will host Rwanda’s Amavubi on Monday in their last Group D match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Having already secured qualification and first place in the group, Coach Augustine Eguavoen insists the team remains focused on securing a win, despite the absence of key players.
Absentees and Adaptations
Goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali left camp following the passing of his father, defender Ola Aina returned to his club, Nottingham Forest, and forward, Ademola Lookman was ruled out due to an injury sustained in the recent match against Benin.
Eguavoen expressed confidence in the squad’s resilience: “The absence of Nwabali, Aina, and Lookman will not stop our momentum. We have players ready to step in and deliver.”
Likely Lineup
Maduka Okoye is expected to return to goal, supported by Bright Osayi-Samuel and Bruno Onyemaechi in wide defensive roles. William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey will likely form the central defensive pairing.
In midfield, veterans Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi are expected to partner with Frank Onyeka, while young talents like Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru could feature.
Victor Osimhen will lead the attack, supported by Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Sadiq Umar.
Beyond the AFCON Qualifiers
While this match has no bearing on Nigeria’s qualification, it holds importance as Rwanda and Nigeria share a group in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with their next meeting scheduled for March 2025.
Eguavoen emphasized the need to maintain momentum as preparations for the World Cup qualifiers continue, while Osimhen expressed eagerness to make an impact:
“This is a chance to not only win but also demonstrate our readiness for bigger challenges ahead.”
Kickoff is scheduled for 5:00 PM local time at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, as Nigeria aims to end the campaign on a high note.
