AFCON Qualifier: Nigeria’s Campaign Ends in Shock Defeat to Rwanda”

Nigeria’s Super Eagles ended their AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign with a surprising 2-1 home defeat to Rwanda in Uyo. Although the Eagles have already secured their spot in the tournament, the match revealed several issues in the team as they struggled to deliver a cohesive performance against the Amavubi.had already secured their spot in the tournament, the match revealed several issues for

Lineups

Nigeria’s interim coach, Austin Eguavoen, made eight changes to the team that drew against Benin. The starting XI featured Maduka Okoye in goal, with defenders Zaidu Sanusi, William Troost-Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo, and Ola Aina. The midfield included Alhassan Yusuf, Raphael Onyedika, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, while Moses Simon, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Victor Boniface led the attack.

Rwanda’s coach, Torsten Spittler, fielded his strongest XI as they needed a win and a favorable result from Benin’s match against Libya to advance. The lineup included Olivier Kwizera in goal, with defenders Fitina Omborenga, Abdul Rwatubyaye, Thierry Manzi, and Eric Rutanga. The midfield featured Djabel Manishimwe, Yannick Mukunzi, and Muhadjiri Hakizimana, while Meddie Kagere, Jacques Tuyisenge, and Lague Byiringiro formed the attacking trio.

How the Match Unfolded

The first half was marked by disjointed play and a lack of urgency from the Super Eagles. Despite already qualifying for AFCON 2025, their flat display on the pitch was concerning. The hosts created few chances, with the only notable opportunity coming just before halftime when Moses Simon made a promising run down the left flank, setting up Kelechi Iheanacho. Unfortunately, Iheanacho’s shot was straight at the Rwandan goalkeeper, who made an impressive save.

Coach Eguavoen made two quick substitutions at the start of the second half to spark life into the team. Samuel Chukwueze replaced Iheanacho, and Frank Onyeka came on for Yusuf after he suffered a heavy tackle in the first half. Chukwueze quickly made his mark, breaking the deadlock with a brilliant solo effort in the 59th minute. Picking up the ball from Onyeka in midfield, he skillfully evaded three defenders before slotting it into the bottom right corner of the net.

However, Nigeria’s lead was short-lived. In the 72nd minute, Rwanda equalized with a well-placed free kick that left goalkeeper Maduka Okoye dizzy and unable to react. Just three minutes later, disaster struck for Nigeria as Rwanda took a shocking lead through a deflected shot that caught the Super Eagles off guard. Two goals in quick succession turned the tide of the match in favor of the Amavubi.

Post-Match Analysis

The defeat exposed several flaws within the Super Eagles’ setup. Despite already qualifying for the tournament, the team lacked cohesion and urgency. The reliance on individual brilliance, particularly from Chukwueze, highlighted the need for a more integrated team strategy. Defensive lapses, especially in set-piece situations, were glaring and must be addressed.

What the Coaches Said

Interim coach Austin Eguavoen acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, stating, “We have a lot of work to do. This defeat shows that we need to be more consistent and disciplined. We can’t rely on individual moments of brilliance.“

Rwanda’s coach, Torsten Spittler, praised his team’s resilience: “The boys showed great character today. We knew we had to win, and they delivered. I’m proud of their performance.”

Player of the Match

Samuel Chukwueze was named the Player of the Match for his brilliant solo goal and overall impact on the game.

What Next

Nigeria must regroup and address its shortcomings to compete effectively in the AFCON 2025 tournament. The Super Eagles’ next step will be to work on their defensive organization and develop a more cohesive team strategy. Conversely, Rwanda will wait to see if its victory and other results will allow it to advance.

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