Rwanda end Super Eagles’ unbeaten run in final 2025 AFCON qualifier
Morocco-bound Super Eagles of Nigeria suffered their first defeat of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at the hands of the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio’s stadium in Uyo, capital of Akwa Ibom state in Southsouth Nigeria.
Nigeria took the lead on 59 minutes through Samuel Chukwueze who slotted home a well-placed shot after a clever pass from Frank Onyeka.
Rwanda equalized just 13 minutes later when Ange Mutsinzi headed in Jojea Kwizera’s free-kick delivery.
The visitors completed the comeback in the 75th minute as Innocent Nshuti finished from a tight angle to silence the home crowd.
Nigeria rallied late, with Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong both coming close, but the Amavubi’s defense held firm to claim a historic victory.
Despite their valiant efforts, Rwanda’s earlier results meant they fell short of qualifying.
Benin will join Nigeria in representing Group D at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, scheduled from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.
While Nigeria will aim to bounce back from this defeat, Benin will look to build on their resilient displays as they prepare for the continental showpiece.
Group D
Team P W D L F A GD Pts
1 Nigeria 6 3 2 1 9 3 6 11
2 Benin 6 2 2 2 7 7 0 8
3 Rwanda 6 2 2 2 5 7 -2 8
4 Libya 6 1 2 3 3 7 -4 5
