AFCON 2025: Super Eagles Share Points In Rwanda In A Thrilling Encounter
Despite controlling the most of the game, the Rwandese team’s strong defense prevented the Eagles from making a breakthrough.
Expectations were high for the Nigerians to win and keep their perfect record in the qualifications after their impressive 3-0 victory over Benin Republic on Saturday.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen made just one change from the previous game: Victor Osimhen started from the bench, just like he did against Benin, while Alex Iwobi was replaced in the starting lineup by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
As was to be expected, Nigeria gained early control of the game as the sensation of the moment, Ademola Lookman, tormented the Amavubi defense.
In the 22nd minute, he believed he had given the Eagles the lead, but the referee called the play offside. a choice that many Nigerian supporters find objectionable. Victor Boniface had rattled the post prior to the goal being canceled, and the Eagles were unable to convert the rebound.
After the game ended in a draw, Eguavoen made two substitutions in the second half, bringing in Osimhen and Moses Simon, who together gave Nigeria a second goal against Benin.
Nonetheless, the Amavubi, motivated by President Paul Kagame’s presence, stood steadfast in the defense to guarantee that no goal.
Nothing happened, even when Nigeria kept applying pressure as the game was coming to a close. The Super Eagles lead the group with four points, followed by Rwanda with two, despite dropping two points.
When Nigeria plays Libya in October, they will be looking to get back to winning ways.
References and Citation
channelstv.com – AFCON Qualifier: Dominant Eagles Held To Frustrating Draw By Rwanda
soccernet.ng – Augustine Eguavoen: The good and the bad from Nigeria’s draw with Rwanda for Super Eagles interim coach
leadership.ng – 2025 AFCON Qualifier: Rwanda Hold Super Eagles To Goalless Draw In Kigali
thecable.ng – AFCON qualifier: Super Eagles frustrated by Rwanda in goalless draw