Nigeria are looking to maintain their good form during this international break against Rwanda, following a convincing 3-0 win against Benin under interim coach Augustine Eguavoen.
Nigeria haven’t played Rwanda for over 6 years, so there isn’t a huge amount to go off in terms of rivalry between the two sides. Having said that, Rwanda currently sit joint top of their World Cup Qualifying group – proving that they are a solid team despite their lack of star power.
Rwanda vs Nigeria
Tuesday 10 September, 14:00
Stade Amahoro
Rwanda, nicknamed the Wasps, will be looking to build on their opening 1-1 draw against Libya as they aim for their second-ever AFCON appearance, their first being in 2004. Led by German coach Torsten Spittler, Rwanda are unbeaten in their last two matches and have shown steady improvement since his appointment in November. Under his guidance, the team has only suffered one defeat in seven games, recording three wins and three draws.
Rwanda’s forward Innocent Nshuti, who scored in their draw against Libya, will be a key player in attack, supported by seasoned right-back Fitina Omborenga, who is on the verge of becoming one of the country’s most capped players. Rwanda’s line-up will feature players who are determined to make history, as they have yet to win against Nigeria in five previous meetings. Despite this, the Wasps hope to continue their promising run of form and secure a surprise victory in front of their home crowd.
Nigeria, however, will pose a formidable challenge. The Super Eagles are coming off an impressive 3-0 victory over Benin, where Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen stole the show. Lookman, fresh from his Ballon d’Or nomination, scored two goals, while Osimhen, the reigning African Player of the Year, netted a third.
This win marked a much-needed return to form for Nigeria, who had gone three matches without a victory prior to that. Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, who took over the reins recently, has managed to bring stability and attacking flair back to the side.
Nigeria’s starting line-up is expected to be star-studded, featuring Lookman, Osimhen, and Samuel Chukwueze in attack. Midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru could also start after a strong performance off the bench against Benin. With their attacking talent and experience in big tournaments, Nigeria will enter the match as strong favorites. Historically, Nigeria has had the upper hand against Rwanda, winning two and drawing three of their previous encounters, including during the AFCON 2012 qualifiers.
For Rwanda, this match represents a significant challenge, but it also offers a chance to prove their growth under Spittler’s leadership. The team will be hoping to exploit any gaps in Nigeria’s defence while relying on the home crowd’s support. For Nigeria, a win would strengthen their position at the top of Group D and bring them closer to securing qualification for the 2025 AFCON.
Bet9ja Tips
Nigeria should be full of confidence after a convincing win against Benin, and despite Rwanda proving to be a tough outfit to get past will look at their top quality forwards as key difference makers in this match.
We foresee a 1-0 victory for Nigeria in this game – Rwanda will be a tough nut to crack but Ademola Lookman looks primed to continue his outstanding form for the Super Eagles.
Bet9ja Odds (at time of writing): Rwanda to win: 5.50, Draw: 3.40, Nigeria win: 1.74
Booking Codes:
Nigeria to win 1-0 – 72HNZ73
Lookman to score any time – 72HP3DY
3 Comments
by OLAYINKA ELLIOT
Nigeria will win Rwanda by 2 goals to 1
by Samuel Ojolo
Nigeria 2 vs 0 Rwanda
by Simon Ufana
Football is a game of who win for me it’s not going to be easy for the match of today good luck to Nigeria team