Nigeria faces a tough test in Kigali as Super Eagles eye AFCON 2025 qualification
Nigeria, runners-up in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, will face a challenging encounter as they take on Rwanda in Kigali on Tuesday, in their second match of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. After a resounding 3-0 victory over Benin in their opening fixture, the Super Eagles are riding high on confidence, but they are well aware that the clash against Rwanda could be a potential stumbling block.
The Nigerian team, led by Augustine Eguavoen, made a strong statement in their first qualifier, with Ademola Lookman scoring twice and Victor Osimhen adding a third to secure a comfortable win over Benin.
This result was particularly significant as it came just months after Nigeria had suffered a 2-1 defeat to the same opponent during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The victory was a much-needed boost for the Super Eagles, setting them on the right path as they aim to secure their place in the AFCON 2025 tournament.
Rwanda, on the other hand, had a more modest start to their campaign. The Amavubi managed a 1-1 draw against Libya in their first match, a result that reflects the steady progress they have been making in recent months.
Rwanda’s recent form has been impressive, with the team losing only once in the past year. Notably, they held Senegal to a 1-1 draw and even defeated South Africa 2-0, showcasing their growing confidence and capability to challenge stronger teams.
This improvement in Rwanda’s performances has not gone unnoticed, and the Super Eagles will need to approach the match in Kigali with caution.
The Rwandan team, buoyed by their recent success, will be determined to make a statement against one of Africa’s football giants.
For Nigeria, this match is a potential trap, and any complacency could be costly.
Eguavoen and his squad are well aware that securing three points in Kigali is crucial if they are to maintain their momentum and keep their qualification hopes on track.
The Nigerian coach is likely to emphasize the importance of focus and discipline, as the Super Eagles aim to avoid any slip-ups in a match that is far from a foregone conclusion.
Rwanda’s resilience and determination make them a formidable opponent on home soil, and the Super Eagles will need to be at their best to navigate this tricky fixture.
The stakes are high, and Nigeria knows that a victory in Kigali would put them in a commanding position in Group D, with six points from two matches.
As the Super Eagles prepare for what promises to be a tough test, the team and their supporters are hopeful that they can build on their strong start and continue their march towards AFCON 2025.
However, with Rwanda eager to prove their mettle, Tuesday’s clash in Kigali is set to be a closely contested affair that could have significant implications for both teams’ qualification ambitions.
