Rwanda coach Amrouche: Nigeria shouldn’t struggle to qualify for World Cup

Rwanda’s national team coach Adel Amrouche has expressed disappointment over his side’s late defeat to Benin Republic in their recent FIFA World Cup qualifier but insists his focus has now shifted to their final group match against South Africa.

Speaking to international journalist, Osazu Obayiwuana from South Africa, where Rwanda are preparing to face Bafana Bafana on Tuesday, Amrouche reflected on the heartbreak in Kigali.

‘I am still gutted that we lost to Benin in the final minutes of our game in Kigali. I really wanted to surprise the world and get Rwanda to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But this is football and we must get ready for our game against South Africa,’ he said.

When asked about Nigeria’s position in the qualifiers, the experienced tactician was unequivocal in his belief that the Super Eagles should not be struggling to secure a spot at the global showpiece.

‘If I were coaching a team like the Super Eagles, with the quality of players that they have, my target would be to reach the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup, at the very minimum. Qualifying for the World Cup should not be the issue,’ Amrouche said.

Nigeria face a crucial final group game against Benin Republic in Uyo, where only a win, potentially by a two goal margin, will keep their hopes of automatic qualification alive.