Rwanda National Football Team stunned the Super Eagles of Nigeria in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, in their last 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on Monday, November 18.
Ahead of the 2025 AFCON Matchday six encounter, Rwanda were condemned to beat the Super Eagles and hoped that Libya beat Benin Republic to become the second country in Group D after Nigeria to book their place in the tournament.
Interestingly, the Rwandans were able to do the impossible as they got the maximum three points against the Super Eagles in front of Nigeria’s football fans at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The first half of the encounter saw Rwanda enjoy most of the ball possession but couldn’t break the defense of the Super Eagles. Nigeria had a couple of chances but were forced to chase after the ball in most parts of the game.
The half-half ended in a barren draw, signalling a more explosive second half as Rwanda were expected to come all out to fight for a win.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen who rested eight players from the starting eleven that drew 1-1 with Benin Republic on Thursday, introduced Samuel Chukwueze and Frank Onyeka at the start of the second half.
In the 59th minute of the encounter, Chukwueze scored a solo goal as he dribbled from the middle of the field to Rwanda’s eighteen-yard box before he slotted the ball in.
Unfortunately for the home team, Rwanda scored two quick goals within three minutes of the second half to come from behind to grab a 2-1 win away from home.
Despite the unexpected win, Libya finished third in Group D and failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON. Nigeria finished top of the group with 11 points in 6 games, and Benin Republic secured the second qualification slot in the group thanks to their 0-0 draw with Libya.
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