Rwanda vs Nigeria: AFCON qualifier preview, predictions, and team news
The Super Eagles of Nigeria head to Kigali for their second round of 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying, where they face the Wasps of Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium on Tuesday, September 10, at 2 PM Nigerian time.
Nigeria’s Dominant Start
Nigeria kicked off their qualifying campaign in style with a convincing 3-0 win over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. This marked a successful debut for interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen, who led the Super Eagles to break a three-match winless streak.
Ballon d’Or nominee Ademola Lookman was the star of the show, netting a brace and assisting in Victor Osimhen’s half-volley. The team will aim to build on that performance as they seek to make it two wins from two.
Rwanda’s Opening Draw
The Rwandan side, meanwhile, earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw away to Libya in their opening match. After going behind early, Innocent Nshuti equalized in the second half to secure a valuable point. The Wasps now return home with hopes of upsetting the Nigerian side.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Nigeria has dominated this fixture, winning twice and drawing three times in five previous encounters. This will be their third AFCON qualifier meeting, with their last clash in 2012 ending in a draw in Kigali and a Super Eagles win in Nigeria.
Team News and Possible Lineups
For Nigeria, Osimhen, who came off the bench to score against Benin, is expected to start in place of Victor Boniface. William Troost-Ekong, who returned to the squad after injury, will likely continue at the heart of the defence.
Rwanda, on the other hand, will look to maintain their starting lineup from the draw against Libya, with Nshuti leading their attack.
Rwanda Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Ntwari (GK); Omborenga, Mutsinzi, Manzi, Niyomugabo; Rebangouka, Bizimana; Mugisha, Muhire, Kwizera; Nshuti
Nigeria Predicted Lineup (3-4-3):
Nwabali (GK); Ajayi, Ekong, Bassey; Aina, Ndidi, Iwobi, Onyemaechi; Lookman, Osimhen, Chukwueze
Predictions
Nigeria enters this match full of confidence and with a strong squad in form. Rwanda has struggled to find consistency at home, and they will face an uphill battle to contain Nigeria’s potent attack led by Osimhen and Lookman. Expect a comfortable win for the Super Eagles.
Score Prediction: Rwanda 0-2 Nigeria
