Nigeria concluded their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign on a sour note, suffering a shocking 2-1 defeat to Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Despite taking an early lead through Samuel Chukwueze, the Super Eagles conceded twice in quick succession to hand Rwanda their first-ever win over Nigeria.
Super Eagles head coach Austine Eguavoen made eight changes to the lineup that drew 1-1 against Benin Republic just days earlier.
Regular starters like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina, and Wilfred Ndidi were rested, giving opportunities to Victor Boniface, Moses Simon, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Raphael Onyedikachi.
Eguavoen’s rotations fall flat
However, the revamped side struggled to dominate the visitors, with their disjointed performance leading to a frustrating first half.
Kelechi Iheanacho had Nigeria’s best chance in the opening period, but his close-range effort was saved by Rwanda’s goalkeeper.
The Super Eagles failed to break down a resolute Rwandan defense, and the teams went into the break goalless.
Eguavoen introduced Chukwueze for Iheanacho at halftime, and the substitution paid immediate dividends. The AC Milan winger showcased his individual brilliance, dribbling past multiple defenders before firing into the bottom corner in the 59th minute, giving Nigeria a 1-0 lead.
However, Rwanda responded emphatically. Ange Mutsinzi equalized with a header in the 72nd minute, exploiting poor marking from Nigeria’s defense. Just three minutes later, Innocent Nshuti completed the comeback, finishing off a swift counterattack to make it 2-1.
Despite late introductions of Osimhen and Umar Sadiq, Nigeria failed to find an equalizer, with Boniface missing a crucial chance and Raphael Onyedika’s long-range effort saved in stoppage time.
With Rwanda’s win, the Wasps still failed to qualify for Morocco 2025 as Benin Republic joined Nigeria on the party to the AFCON following their goalless draw in Libya.
Nigeria and Rwanda will square up again in Kigali in March next year in the World Cup qualifying series.
