Rwanda faces Nigeria in a CAF World Cup qualifier today at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali. This game is expected to reshape the battle for the top spot in Group C.
Rwanda are one point adrift from group leaders Benin. A win would bring them closer to history, as they aim for their first World Cup. Nigeria, on the other hand, needs a victory to revive their hopes after missing the last tournament in Qatar.
Kick-off is at 4 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT) and fans can catch the action live on SuperSport and RTV Rwanda.
Both teams have a history of close games. In five meetings, each side has won once, with three draws. Rwanda won their last game that was officiated by the Moroccan referee Samir Guezzaz. This gives them confidence on their home soil.
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Nigeria’s new coach, Eric Sekou Chelle, leads his first game after months of preparation. He took over in January, becoming the first non-Nigerian African to manage the team. His mission is clear: get Nigeria back on track.
The Super Eagles have struggled in qualifiers, with three draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Last November, they also lost Benin. They now sit in fifth place, four points behind Rwanda.
The Super Eagles will need to fight from start to finish. Rwanda has proven a tough opponent at home. Nigeria’s past three visits to Kigali ended in draws. The hosts will not back down, and Chelle’s men must match their intensity.
Victor Osimhen has spoken about the new coach’s demands, saying players must work hard or risk losing their spot. “He told us, ‘No one plays unless they fight for every ball,'” Osimhen said. Captain William Troost-Ekong added, “We know this is a big job. We are ready. The pressure is a privilege.”
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Predicted lineup:
Rwanda: Ntwari; Niyigena, Mutsinzi, Manzi, Niyomugabo; Sahabo, Bizimana, Rubanguka; Rafael, Nshuti, Mugisha
Nigeria: Nwabali; Aina, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Onyedika, Iwobi; Simon, Osimhen, Lookman
Score Prediction:
Nigeria is in trouble. With no wins in their last four qualifiers, they now face Rwanda in Kigali—a place they’ve never won. The last three trips were all draws.
At the same time, Rwanda is hungry, just one point off the top, and they know this could be their moment to top the group. Nigeria has talent, but a new coach could mean uncertainty. Osimhen and the squad need to fight, but history isn’t on their side. Rwanda won’t back down at home.
Expect a draw or double chance for Rwanda.
Rwanda 1-1 Nigeria
