AFCON qualifiers: Super Eagles, Rwanda’s Amavubi, arrive in Uyo
…match officials expected Saturday
By Tosin Omojola
Group leaders Nigeria and their final-day opponents, Rwanda, have arrived in Uyo ahead of their Matchday 6 encounter in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying series. The match, scheduled for Monday, will conclude the qualification campaign.
Despite their slim chances, Rwanda’s Amavubi still have a mathematical shot at securing a ticket to Morocco 2025. Their hopes depend on beating Nigeria and on Libya defeating Benin Republic in a simultaneous fixture in North Africa. Rwanda’s chances took a significant hit after a home loss to Libya’s Mediterranean Knights on Thursday.
The Super Eagles, already confirmed as group winners, approach the match with less pressure, focusing on national pride. Their relaxed demeanor contrasts with the intense clash they had with Benin’s Cheetahs in Abidjan on Thursday night.
Arrival Details
The Nigerian delegation arrived at the Obong Victor Attah International Airport at 3:50 pm on Friday aboard a chartered ValueJet aircraft from Abidjan. Meanwhile, Rwanda’s contingent traveled from Kigali to Lagos on a Rwandair flight before connecting to Uyo via Ibom Air, landing just before 5 pm.
Match Venue and Atmosphere
The game will take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, where a lively carnival atmosphere is anticipated as Nigerian fans celebrate their team’s AFCON qualification.
In their first meeting in Kigali this September, both teams played to a goalless draw. Controversy surrounded that match due to Ademola Lookman’s disallowed first-half goal, a decision by the Moroccan referee that remains contentious.
Match Officials
Moroccan referee Samir Guezzaz, alongside compatriots Zakaria Brinsi, Abdessamad Abertoune, and Kech Chaf Mustapha, will officiate Monday’s game. They, along with match commissioner Prosper Harrison Addo from Ghana and referee assessor Ali Mohamed Ahmed from Somalia, are expected to arrive in Nigeria on Saturday.
Kickoff is set for 5 pm, as fans look forward to an entertaining encounter in Uyo.
