Nigeria head to Rwanda for their second 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match after a convincing victory over Benin in their opening fixture, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles are determined to maintain their strong start, but Rwanda, under head coach Torsten Spittler, will look to cause an upset in front of their home fans.
Rwanda, known as the Wasps, are hoping to make only their second appearance at AFCON, having last qualified in 2004. They opened their 2025 qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Libya in Tripoli.
Despite the Rwandans falling behind early, Innocent Nshuti netted their equalizer as they earned a share of the spoils.
Spittler’s side has now gone unbeaten in two matches, and the German tactician has lost just once since taking charge last November.
However, facing Nigeria presents a significant challenge.
The Super Eagles have historically dominated Rwanda, with two wins and three draws from five previous encounters.
Nigeria’s interim boss, Augustine Eguavoen, began his tenure with a commanding 3-0 win over Benin, ending a three-match winless run and putting them atop Group D. It was the first time the Super Eagles would keep a clean sheet in six games.
Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, fresh off his Ballon d’Or nomination, stole the show with a brace, while Victor Osimhen added to the tally late in the game.
Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface started that game while Nantes star Moses Simon impressed from the bench.
The Super Eagles’ firepower, coupled with a revamped defensive line, makes them the favourites for Tuesday’s clash.
For Rwanda, Innocent Nshuti is expected to lead the attack after his impressive performance against Libya.
Veteran right-back Fitina Omborenga, one cap away from being Rwanda’s joint-fifth most-capped player, will anchor the defence.
Rwanda’s midfield will rely on captain Djihad Bizimana to control proceedings and frustrate Nigeria’s attack.
Nigeria, on the other hand, could look to replace Boniface with Osimhen in the starting lineup.
Osimhen, reigning African Player of the Year, came off the bench to score against Benin and is expected to start alongside Lookman, who dazzled with two goals last weekend.
Samuel Chukwueze is also likely to feature in the front three, while midfield dynamo Wilfred Ndidi and the versatile Alex Iwobi will control the engine room. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who impressed as a substitute, may push for a starting role.
Another win for coach Eguavoen’s men will put the three-time African champions in the driving seat in the race for Morocco 2025.
