Rwanda’s Torsten Spittler applauds team’s defensive resolve in stalemate against Nigeria
Rwanda’s head coach, Torsten Spittler, has commended his team’s resilient performance following their 0-0 draw against Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifier. The Amavubi displayed a solid defensive effort, successfully holding the three-time AFCON champions to a goalless draw at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Tuesday.
Despite Nigeria dominating possession and applying sustained pressure, Spittler’s side remained resolute, frustrating the Super Eagles’ attempts to break the deadlock.
The match saw Rwanda put on an impressive defensive display, showcasing discipline and determination against a Nigerian squad known for its attacking prowess.
Spittler, speaking after the game, expressed his satisfaction with his team’s effort, not just in securing the result but in how they rose to the challenge against such a formidable opponent.
“I’m very happy not only because of the result but also the way we played,” Spittler remarked.
“It’s always important that you make a good match, and then I said normally the results will come.”
The Rwandan coach acknowledged the quality of Nigeria’s attack, singling out their forward line as world-class.
“Everybody could see this Nigerian team, especially the forward line, is world-class,” Spittler said, recognizing the challenge his team faced in keeping the Super Eagles’ high-caliber attack at bay.
Though Rwanda had fewer opportunities in front of goal compared to their Nigerian counterparts, Spittler pointed out the gulf in quality between the two teams’ attacking options.
“We also had a few chances where you could see the difference between our strikers and their strikers,” he added, indicating that Rwanda’s attacking limitations were evident against Nigeria’s more polished offense.
The draw keeps Rwanda in contention as they look to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, with the team taking great encouragement from the match against one of the continent’s footballing heavyweights.
Nigeria, on the other hand, may be disappointed by the result, having failed to break through the Rwandan defense despite their dominance in possession and chances created.
The Rwandan fans in Kigali will be hopeful that their national team can build on this hard-earned point as they continue their qualifying campaign.
Spittler’s praise of the squad reflects optimism, with his team showing that they are capable of matching even the strongest sides in African football.
The AFCON 2025 qualification race continues to intensify, with both Rwanda and Nigeria set to face further tests as the campaign progresses.
For now, though, Rwanda can celebrate a defensive masterclass that has kept them very much in the mix.
