Rwanda 0-0 Nigeria: Fiacre Ntwari’s heroics deny Super Eagles in goalless draw

Rwanda national team goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari, was the standout player as his resolute display earned the hosts a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Nigeria in their AFCON 2025 qualifier in Kigali.

The Super Eagles, fresh off their commanding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic, dominated possession and created numerous chances throughout the match.

However, Ntwari was unbeatable between the posts, denying Nigeria time and again in what proved to be a frustrating evening for the visitors.

The match began with both teams feeling each other out, but it wasn’t long before Nigeria took control. Ademola Lookman had a golden opportunity to break the deadlock early on, but his 22nd-minute goal was controversially disallowed for a foul in the build-up.

That set the tone for the rest of the game, as Nigeria piled on the pressure on Rwanda but failed to convert their chances.

Ntwari was at his best in the second half, thwarting attempts from Victor Osimhen and Lookman, who both struggled to find their rhythm in front of goal.

The Rwandan goalkeeper made a string of superb saves, including a close-range effort from Osimhen in the 74th minute and a powerful strike from Lookman moments later.

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As Nigeria continued to push for a late winner, Ntwari remained composed, making crucial saves to preserve Rwanda’s clean sheet. In the dying moments of the match, Taiwo Awoniyi replaced Lookman, but even fresh legs couldn’t break through the determined Rwanda defense.

While the Super Eagles were left ruing their wastefulness in front of goal, Ntwari’s performance earned him plaudits as Rwanda celebrated a hard-earned point that keeps them top of their qualifying group.

For Nigeria, the goalless draw serves as a reminder that quality possession must be matched with clinical finishing if they are to secure their place in the tournament.

With both teams still very much in the race for AFCON qualification, the result leaves the group wide open as the competition heats up.