In a surprising twist, Rwanda defeated the Super Eagles in their own backyard but fell short of securing AFCON 2025 qualification.
On Monday, Rwanda delivered an outstanding performance in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier by defeating already-qualified Nigeria with a score of 2-1.
Samuel Chukwueze’s dazzling solo display broke the deadlock for Nigeria in the 59th minute. However, two rapid goals from Amavubi turned the tide, quieting the Nigerian supporters and securing a landmark victory for Rwanda.
Despite their victory, the Rwandans did not advance to the competition as they fell short against Benin Republic, who secured the group’s second spot.
The loss dashed Nigeria’s hopes of concluding the qualification series undefeated.
The Super Eagles entered the match having already secured qualification for the 2025 AFCON, thanks to Libya’s victory over Rwanda on Thursday.
Nigeria was missing key players Ademola Lookman from Atalanta, Ola Aina of Fulham, and Chippa United’s reliable goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali—who was excused due to the recent passing of his father—as they approached the final qualification game for the competition.
Interim Coach Austine Eguavoen made notable changes to the lineup, opting to bench star striker Victor Osimhen and starting Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye in goal.
In the first half, the Super Eagles generated several opportunities but were unable to capitalize on them. As a result, both teams headed into halftime without scoring any goals.
As the second half resumed, the game progressed with few opportunities for either team. Nonetheless, AC Milan’s Chukwueze seized a stray ball in midfield and skillfully maneuvered past three Rwandan players before finding the back of the net. The home side took a 1-0 lead!
However, the East Africans responded in the 72nd minute with a goal from Mutsinzi Ange, who plays for Zira FK in the Azerbaijan Premier League.
Three minutes later, Nsuti Innocent scored Rwanda’s second goal by slipping the ball past Okoye at his near post. In an effort to find an equalizer, Nigeria brought on Osimhen and Sadiq Umar. However, their presence did not alter the outcome as the Amavubi celebrated a historic win over the three-time African champions. These two teams will face off again next year in the qualifying rounds for the 2026 World Cup.
Although Rwanda won, they were unable to qualify for the AFCON. They ended up in third place with eight points, tied with the Benin Republic who claimed the second qualification spot from Group D due to a superior goal difference. Both teams drew blank in their match against Libya, which finished at the bottom of the group with five points.
