Nigeria will not be under significant pressure when the Super Eagles face Rwanda in their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo on Monday.
Having already secured qualification and the top spot in Group D, Augustine Eguavoen has the freedom to experiment with his squad.
However, while the match might seem inconsequential for Nigeria, there are stakes to consider.
Eguavoen has the chance to join the elite ranks of Super Eagles managers who have guided the team through an unbeaten qualifying campaign.
Additionally, Nigeria have a flawless record against Rwanda in six previous meetings, a stat the Super Eagles would be keen to maintain.
For Rwanda, the stakes are much higher.
Sitting third in Group D, the Amavubi must defeat Nigeria and hope Benin falter against Libya to have any chance of qualifying.
As such, Rwanda will approach the game with an urgency that demands Nigeria’s attention, even in what might feel like a dead-rubber tie.
Eguavoen is likely to shift from the conservative 3-4-3 formation that earned a 1-1 draw against Benin, opting instead for a more dynamic 4-3-3 setup.
Here’s how the Super Eagles are expected to line up at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium:
Maduka Okoye is set to make his first Super Eagles appearance since the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon.
With Stanley Nwabali excused from camp due to personal reasons, Okoye — impressive for Udinese in Serie A — will most likely earn his 13th international cap. His sharp reflexes and confidence will be crucial in keeping Rwanda’s ambitions at bay.
Ola Aina’s return to England at Nottingham Forest’s request opens the door for Bright Osayi-Samuel at right-back.
The Fenerbahce star, one of the standout defenders in the Turkish Super Lig, offers solidity and attacking thrust on the flank.
In central defence, captain William Troost-Ekong is expected to partner Calvin Bassey, with Gabriel Osho likely making way after debuting against Benin.
On the left, Bruno Onyemaechi has cemented his place, after showing reliability and consistency for Boavista and the national team in recent times.
The midfield trio sees some reshuffling.
Wilfred Ndidi is set to be rested, paving the way for Alhassan Yusuf to step in as the holding midfielder.
Frank Onyeka, with his box-to-box energy, is favoured over Raphael Onyedika.
In the creative role, Alex Iwobi remains the natural choice unless Fisayo Dele-Bashiru recovers fully from a knock.
Iwobi’s vision and link-up play will be key to unlocking Rwanda’s defence.
Victor Osimhen, fresh from scoring his 23rd international goal against Benin, is doubtful for this clash.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, despite his modest return of one goal in nine games for Nigeria, should step up as the central striker.
On the left, Moses Simon’s impactful cameo against Benin — where he assisted Osimhen’s equaliser — earns him a starting berth in Ademola Lookman’s absence.
Simon’s ability to deliver in crunch moments could be decisive.
The right flank poses a dilemma. Kelechi Iheanacho’s poor showing against Benin likely rules him out, while Samuel Chukwueze, despite recent struggles, is poised to start.
The AC Milan winger could use this match to rebuild confidence and find his rhythm.
While Rwanda will fight tooth and nail for a historic win, Nigeria’s superior quality and depth should shine through.
Eguavoen’s potential tactical adjustments, combined with standout talents like Simon, Boniface, and Chukwueze, make the Super Eagles strong favourites to close their AFCON qualifying campaign on a high.
Victory would not only maintain Nigeria’s unbeaten record but also set a positive tone as the Super Eagles prepare for their continental challenge in Morocco next year.
This post was last modified on November 17, 2024 8:42 pm
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