Nigeria’s Super Eagles aim to end their AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign unbeaten when they face Rwanda in Uyo. Already qualified for the tournament, the Eagles look to secure a final win despite missing key players like Nwabali, Lookman, and Aina. Rwanda must win to keep their AFCON hopes alive.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will take on Rwanda in a highly anticipated final Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Monday, November 18, 2024. Nigeria, having already secured a spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco, aims to finish the qualifiers unbeaten, with 11 points from five matches.
Despite their top spot in Group D, head coach Augustine Eguavoen has emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum. "We are professionals, and we will approach this match with the same intensity we would against any top team," said Eguavoen. The Super Eagles come into the match with confidence, having delivered impressive home victories against Benin and Libya, and now hope to extend their unbeaten run against Rwanda, who are desperate for a win to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Rwanda, currently in third place, needs to beat Nigeria and hope that Libya defeats Benin to secure second place and a spot in the 2025 AFCON. Rwanda's coach, Torsten Spittler, has made it clear that his team must win if they are to have any chance of advancing. "We must go to AFCON, and that starts with defeating Nigeria," he declared.
In contrast, Nigeria’s squad is dealing with a few notable absences. First-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will miss the match due to a family bereavement, opening the door for Maduka Okoye to take the starting position. Forward Ademola Lookman and defender Ola Aina, both key players in previous matches, have also returned to their clubs due to injury concerns and club commitments.
While Nigeria has never lost to Rwanda in their six previous meetings, including a goalless draw earlier in the qualifying campaign, the Eagles know that underestimating the Amavubi could result in an upset. With their AFCON spot secured, the team will be looking to make a statement in their final qualifier.
This match is scheduled for today at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. Nigerian time, with live broadcasts available on DSTV’s Supersport and Afro Sport.
