Rwanda produced a brilliant display on Monday in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, beating already-qualified Nigeria 1-2.
A brilliant solo effort from Samuel Chukwueze had given Nigeria the breakthrough in the 59th minute. But two quick-fire goals from the Amavubi silenced the Nigerian home crowd and handed a historic win to the Rwandans.
Despite the win, the Rwandans did not make it to the competition as they fell short to Benin Republic who picked the group’s second ticket.
The defeat punctured Nigeria’s hopes of ending the qualification series without a loss.
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The Super Eagles came into the game already qualified for the 2025 AFCON after Libya’s win against Rwanda on Thursday.
Nigeria were without stars Ademola Lookman of Atalanta, Ola Aina of Fulham, and Chippa United’s safe hands Stanley Nwabali – who was excused after losing his father – going into the last qualification game for the competition.
Interim Coach Austine Eguavoen expectedly paraded a much-changed lineup, benching star striker Victor Osimhen and also starting Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye in between the sticks.
The first half saw the Super Eagles create some chances but lacked the cutting edge to finish them off. Both teams entered the tunnel all square after failing to find the net.
On the resumption of the second half, the game continued without many chances for either side. However, AC Milan’s Chukwueze picked a loose ball right at the centre, and wriggled his way past three Rwandans before hitting the target. 1-0 to the home side!
However, the East Africans struck back through Mutsinzi Ange who plays for Azerbaijan Premier League club Zira FK in the 72nd minute.
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Three minutes later, Nsuti Innocent added the second for Rwanda, beating Okoye in his near post. In search of an equaliser, Nigeria threw Osimhen and Sadiq Umar into the fray. Their introduction did not make any difference as the Amavubi secured a historic victory over the three-time African champions who they will meet next year in the qualification race for the 2026 World Cup.
Despite the win, Rwanda could not secure a ticket to the AFCON. They finished third on eight points, the same as the Benin Republic who picked the second ticket in Group D (the Cheetahs of Benin had a better goal difference) and drew blank in their Monday game against Libya. Libya finished last in the group with five points.
