Nigeria and Rwanda during the AFCON qualifier match at Godwill Akpabio Stadium on November 18, 2024 in Uyo, Nigeria. [Photo Credit/ Imago].
The Wasps of Rwanda and the Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to clash for three points in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Soccernet.ng reports.
Previously, Eric Chelle’s Eagles faced off against Adel Amrouche’s team in their final AFCON 2025 qualifier game. In November, the Rwandans emerged victorious, sealing a 2-1 win at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
In that game, Samuel Chukwueze came off the bench to break the deadlock for Nigeria before a quick-fire double from Ange Mutsinzi and Innocent Nshuti turned the game in Rwanda’s favour.
Soccernet.ng highlights five Rwandan players who could pose a significant threat to the Super Eagles when they meet on Friday.
1. Fiacre Ntwari
The 25-year-old Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper has been second fiddle for his club side since the last time Rwanda played against the Super Eagles. However, he made four crucial saves against Nigeria last time out and could be pivotal in Kigali when both sides meet on Friday.
The FC Kryvbas defensive midfielder captained the Amavubi during their trip to Uyo last year, and his physicality won a huge number of duels in the middle of the park. With the home crowd behind them on Friday, the 28-year-old will need to be tamed by the Nigerian midfielders.
The former FAR Rabat left-back was rock-solid when both sides met last time out. He’s recorded 13 appearances for AEL Limassol in the Cyprian Division this season.
The Super Eagles wingers will need to be on their toes to get past Imanishimwe on Friday in Kigali.
The Rhode Island wing-back came off the bench in Uyo to provide a brilliant assist and turn the game around in Rwanda’s favour.
The 26-year-old forward was a thorn in Nigeria’s flesh in Uyo, and found the back of the net to give the Rwandans three points. Without a doubt, Adel Amrouche will be looking to play to the attacker’s strengths on Friday.
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