The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to wrap up their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification campaign with a decisive clash against the Amavubi of Rwanda. Taking place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Monday, November 18, 2024, the encounter promises drama and intensity, as both teams pursue their respective objectives in this final Matchday 6 fixture.
Nigeria’s Qualification Secured
Nigeria already punched their ticket to the Morocco-hosted tournament after a gritty 1-1 draw against Benin Republic in their last match. Star striker Victor Osimhen proved his mettle once again, scoring the equalizer that ensured the Super Eagles maintained their qualification momentum. Now, they aim to use this game to test tactics, build cohesion, and sharpen their squad for the AFCON tournament.
Rwanda’s Slim Hopes
For Rwanda, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Coming off a narrow 0-1 loss to Libya in Kigali, the Amavubi’s AFCON qualification chances hang by a thread. To keep their hopes alive, they must not only defeat Nigeria but also rely on favorable results elsewhere. Beyond qualification, Rwanda seeks redemption and a morale boost ahead of their World Cup qualifiers, where they will again face Nigeria and Benin Republic.
Head-to-Head: A Favorable Record for Nigeria
The Super Eagles hold a dominant record against Rwanda in their six previous encounters. Nigeria has won twice, while the remaining four matches ended in draws. Notably, Rwanda has never beaten Nigeria, a statistic they hope to rewrite in Uyo. Their first meeting in the current qualifiers ended in a controversial goalless draw in Kigali, where Ademola Lookman’s disallowed goal raised eyebrows.
Stakes and Strategies
For Nigeria, this game is an opportunity to:
- Fine-tune their gameplay and experiment with squad depth.
- Strengthen their attack, led by Victor Osimhen, and midfield, anchored by Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi.
- Boost team morale ahead of the AFCON tournament.
For Rwanda, it’s about:
- Fighting tooth and nail to claim their first-ever win against Nigeria.
- Sending a message of resilience as they prepare for the World Cup qualifiers.
- Defending against Nigeria’s high-paced attack while exploiting counter-attacks.
Match Details
Date: Monday, November 18, 2024
Time: 5 p.m. Nigerian Time
Venue: Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo
Where to Watch: Live broadcasts on DSTV’s Supersport and Afro Sport
With contrasting goals on the line, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Super Eagles will look to soar in front of their home fans, while the Amavubi will battle fiercely to keep their dreams alive. Football fans across the continent will undoubtedly have their eyes glued to this electrifying AFCON qualifier.
