AFCON 2025 Qualifier: Stubborn Rwandan defence frustrate Super Eagles in Kigali

Austin Eguavoen’s side, which beat Benin Republic 3-0 on Saturday, also in an AFCON qualifier, was left frustrated by their profligacy and the brilliance of the Rwandan goalkeeper, Ntwari.

Eguavoen made one change, with Fisayo Dele-Basiru starting in place of Alex Iwobi.

Up front, Victor Boniface retained his place, with super-sub against Benin, Victor Osimhen, starting again from the bench.

The Bayer Leverkusen striker could have repaid the confidence placed in him, but his beautiful effort cannoned off the upright after he had dummied a Rwandan defender.

This was before Ademola Lookman thought he had given Nigeria the lead with his dinking header from an Ola Aina cross. The referee ruled it out for a foul on a Rwandan player.

Ekong predicts tough Rwanda clash
AFCON qualifier: Nigeria eye perfect run against Rwanda
The Ballon d’Or nominee’s afternoon had got to a bad start after surging through the host’s backline, but he could only direct his effort at Ntwari.

At half-time, Eguavoen introduced Osimhen and Moses Simon to boost Nigeria’s attack, but the resolute Rwandan defence held firm.

Goalkeeper Ntwari continued his superb form, making several crucial saves, including a last-minute effort from Osimhen’s header to keep the score level.

Nigeria continued to pile on the pressure but could not find a decisive breakthrough.

Despite the dropped points, the Super Eagles remain top of Group D with four points, while Rwanda sits second with two.

Nigeria will host Libya in their next qualifier in October.

Nigeria vs Rwanda: Head to Head

With only four matches played between the two nations since 2005, it’s a rivalry that’s still in its early stages of development.

However, the matches played so far have shown promise of a thrilling competition between the two teams.

Nigeria, being the more experienced and successful team, has had the upper hand in their encounters.

They have won one match and drawn three, with Rwanda yet to register a win.

The most recent match between the two teams, played today, September 10, 2024, ended in a 0-0 draw.