Rwanda’s head coach, Torsten Frank-Spittler, has declared that his team is in Nigeria with one mission: to claim all three points and keep their slim hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations alive.
The Amavubi lost 1-0 at home to Libya in Kigali during their last qualifying match, a setback that left their chances hanging by a thread.
With one game remaining in the group stage, Rwanda sits third in the four-team group. A loss or draw in Uyo against Nigeria will end their AFCON dreams.
Currently, Rwanda has five points, trailing second-placed Benin by two points and leading bottom-placed Libya by just one.
For Rwanda to qualify, they must defeat Nigeria and hope that the match between Libya and Benin ends in a draw.
Frank-Spittler fancies Rwanda chances against Nigeria
Despite the odds, Frank-Spittler remains optimistic about his team’s chances.
“It is clear that if we want to go to AFCON, we have to win here.
“That is our mission. I expect an interesting match against Nigeria, and we will fight until the last minute.”
Acknowledging the strength of the Super Eagles, he added, “Sure, we know that Nigeria is a very strong side.
“I think we played a good match against them at home, so we are expecting a very difficult game. But as I said, we are here to get three points.”
The coach also considered Nigeria’s situation, as the Super Eagles have already qualified for the tournament.
“We do not know how serious Nigeria will take the match now that they are already through, but I do not think they will make it easy for us.
“It will be a very interesting game.” he concluded.
The Amavubi will need nothing short of a miracle in Uyo to secure their place at next year’s AFCON tournament.
