The Super Eagles of Nigeria are in a must-win situation as they face Rwanda’s Amavubi in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Amahoro Stadium, Kigali. With their World Cup dreams hanging by a thread, Nigeria must secure all three points against a Rwandan side that has surprisingly held the upper hand in recent encounters.
Match Details
Fixture: Rwanda vs. Nigeria
Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier (CAF) – Group C
Date: Friday, March 21, 2025
Kick-off Time: 5:00 PM (Nigeria Time)
Venue: Amahoro Stadium, Kigali
How to Watch
Nigeria: SuperSport
Rwanda: RTV Rwanda
Team Form & History
Nigeria’s qualification campaign has been disappointing so far, with zero wins in four matches (D3, L1). Their last encounter with Rwanda ended in a shocking 1-2 home defeat, marking Rwanda’s first-ever win over Nigeria. The reverse fixture in Kigali last September ended in a goalless draw.
Rwanda, meanwhile, is top of Group C with seven points and remains unbeaten in their last three meetings against the Super Eagles.
Expected Lineups
Rwanda (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Fiacre Ntwari
Defenders: Fitina Ombolenga, Thierry Manzi, Ange Mutsinzi, Ishimwe Yannick
Midfielders: Djihad Bizimana, Gilbert Nshuti, Jean Ruboneka
Forwards: Didier Mugisha, Hakim Sahabo, Innocent Nshuti
Nigeria (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
Defenders: Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi
Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface
Key Players to Watch
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria) – The returning star striker could be Nigeria’s biggest weapon.
Djihad Bizimana (Rwanda) – The midfield general who dictates Rwanda’s tempo.
Stanley Nwabali (Nigeria) – The goalkeeper must be at his best to avoid another upset.
Match Preview & Prediction
With newly appointed coach Eric Chelle at the helm, Nigeria desperately needs a victory to revive their World Cup hopes. Rwanda’s solid defense has only conceded once in four matches, while Nigeria’s attack has lacked consistency.
Prediction: Rwanda 0-1 Nigeria – A hard-fought battle, but Osimhen’s presence might make the difference.
Can the Super Eagles bounce back, or will Rwanda continue their fairytale run? All eyes will be on Kigali for this must-watch showdown!
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