Rwanda Stuns Nigeria with Dramatic Comeback Victory

• Nigeria's Super Eagles suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat to Rwanda's Amavubi in their final 2025 AFCON qualifying match.
• Rwanda staged a dramatic comeback, overturning Samuel Chukwueze's 58th-minute goal to secure their first win in the qualifiers.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria suffered a stunning 2-1 defeat at the hands of Rwanda's Amavubi in their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match. The Wasps, driven by determination and grit, came from behind to secure a historic win, their first in the qualifiers.

The match began with Rwanda showcasing their intent to go all out against the Super Eagles. Nigeria, however, struggled to find their rhythm, despite dominating possession. The Super Eagles' first real chance came in the 9th minute when Victor Boniface's pass found Alhassan Yusuf, but he slipped at the vital moment, allowing Kelechi Iheanacho to force a shot that was deflected for a corner.

Rwanda's resilience was on full display as they pushed for a promising attack in the 21st minute. Gabriel Mushiga's cross, however, failed to find any of his teammates in the box. Nigeria responded, but Victor Boniface couldn't capitalize on Moses Simon's cross. The Super Eagles won a free kick in the 25th minute, but Kelechi Iheanacho's poor delivery gave away a goal kick.

As the first half progressed, Rwanda grew into the game, winning a corner in the 42nd minute. The Nigerian defense dealt with the threat, but Rwanda's determination was evident. Just before halftime, Kelechi Iheanacho's shot was saved by Ntwari, following a sumptuous cross from Moses Simon.

The introduction of Samuel Chukwueze in the second half brought a spark to Nigeria's attack. Chukwueze's brilliant solo effort in the 58th minute saw him breeze past three defenders before placing the ball past Ntwari, giving Nigeria the lead. The Super Eagles pushed for a second, but Rwanda refused to back down.

Ange Mutsinzi's header in the 71st minute, from a Jojea Kwizera free kick delivery, drew Rwanda level. Innocent Nshuti completed the stunning turnaround two minutes later, flicking the ball into the net at the near post. Nigeria's attempts to salvage a point were futile, with Frank Onyeka wasting a chance in the 93rd minute.

The defeat marked a disappointing end to Nigeria's unbeaten run in the qualifiers. Rwanda's historic win will undoubtedly boost their morale ahead of their World Cup qualifying clash against Nigeria next year. The Super Eagles, meanwhile, will regroup and refocus ahead of the 2025 AFCON.

Coach Austin Eguavoen's tactics were called into question, particularly his decision to start without Victor Osimhen. The introduction of Osimhen in the 77th minute was too little, too late, as Rwanda had already seized momentum. Nigeria's defeat serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for improvement ahead of the continental showpiece.

The final whistle marked a famous victory for Rwanda, their first in the qualifiers. The Wasps' determination and resilience paid off, and they will carry this momentum into their next meeting with Nigeria in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in March 2025.