AFCON qualifiers: Rwanda stun Super Eagles in Uyo
By Tosin Omojola
The Super Eagles of Nigeria suffered a surprising 2-1 defeat to Rwanda on Monday night in Uyo, during their final 2025 AFCON qualifier. The result marked Rwanda’s first-ever victory over Nigeria at the senior international level.
Despite the disappointing home loss, the Super Eagles still topped Group D with 11 points from six matches, securing their spot in Morocco 2025. Rwanda finished with eight points but narrowly missed out on qualification, as Benin advanced on superior goal difference following a goalless draw against Libya in Tripoli.
Nigeria took the lead in the 59th minute through substitute Samuel Chukwueze, whose individual brilliance unlocked Rwanda’s defense. Chukwueze surged through a crowded backline and delivered a precise low shot past goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari.
Rwanda, however, responded decisively. Jummy Mutsinzi equalized in the 72nd minute with a powerful header that beat Maduka Okoye. Just three minutes later, Innocent Nshuti capitalized on a defensive lapse to put the visitors ahead.
Earlier in the match, Nigeria came close to scoring in the 50th minute when Victor Boniface’s header, off a Moses Simon corner, was superbly saved by Ntwari.
The Rwandan goalkeeper, who also earned Man of the Match honors in their scoreless draw against Nigeria in Kigali, once again proved instrumental in his team’s performance.
While the Super Eagles will now turn their focus to the tournament proper, Rwanda will rue missed opportunities in a campaign that saw them fall just short of qualification.
