2025 AFCON Qualifier: Resilient Rwanda Hold Super Eagles to Frustrating Goalless Draw
By Okafor Joseph Afam
September 10, 2024
The Super Eagles of Nigeria were frustrated by a resilient Rwandan side, as the two teams played out a goalless draw in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Tuesday.
Despite Nigeria’s dominance in possession, they failed to break down a well-organized Rwandan defense. The Eagles, boasting several top European-based players, could not convert their chances in front of goal. Key players like Victor Osimhen and Kelechi Iheanacho were marked tightly by the Rwandan defenders, who put in a disciplined performance throughout the match.
In the first half, the Super Eagles looked the more dangerous of the two sides, creating a few scoring opportunities. Osimhen came closest in the 23rd minute with a powerful header, but Rwanda’s goalkeeper, Yves Kimenyi, made a fantastic save to keep his side level.
The second half saw more of the same, with Nigeria controlling the game but unable to find the back of the net. Attempts from Iheanacho and Samuel Chukwueze went wide, while Kimenyi continued to be a wall in goal for Rwanda. The introduction of Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman brought fresh legs but did little to change the outcome.
Rwanda, on the other hand, remained defensively compact and relied on counterattacks. Their few chances were well handled by Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho, who had a relatively quiet night.
With this result, Nigeria remains top of their group but will rue the missed opportunity to secure three points at home. Rwanda, currently underdogs in the group, will be pleased with their hard-earned draw, giving them a glimmer of hope in their quest for qualification.
The Super Eagles will now look to regroup ahead of their next qualifier, knowing they will need to be more clinical if they are to secure their place in the 2025 AFCON tournament.
Nigeria Starting XI:
Francis Uzoho, Ola Aina, Jamilu Collins, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Osimhen.
Rwanda Starting XI:
Yves Kimenyi, Fitina Ombolenga, Thierry Manzi, Salomon Niyonkuru, Djabel Manishimwe, Olivier Niyonzima, Kevin Muhire, Haruna Niyonzima, Meddie Kagere, Muhadjiri Hakizimana, Ernest Sugira.
