Rwanda pulled off a historic upset by defeating Nigeria’s Super Eagles 2-1 in their final Group D match of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers in Uyo on Monday.
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Despite the match being a formality for the Super Eagles, Rwanda played with determination, knowing they needed a win and a favorable result from Benin’s game against Libya.
The Super Eagles opened the scoring in the second half through substitute Samuel Chukwueze, who dazzled with a brilliant solo effort.
However, Rwanda responded emphatically, scoring twice in three minutes through Ange Mutsinzi and Innocent Nshuti to secure their first-ever victory over Nigeria.
The game saw Austin Eguavoen rotate his squad, handing starting roles to players like Bright Osayi-Samuel, Alhassan Yusuf, Raphael Onyedika, and Victor Boniface. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye also made his return after two years.
Early chances were scarce, with Dele-Bashiru’s second-minute effort blocked and Simon’s attempt intercepted in the first half.
Chukwueze’s introduction at halftime brought a spark, and his 59th-minute goal was a highlight as he weaved through three defenders before firing past the goalkeeper. Rwanda’s comeback began in the 72nd minute when Mutsinzi headed home a set-piece, and Nshuti completed the turnaround three minutes later, slotting in from a cross.
Chukwueze came close to leveling the score late on, but his control let him down, and Onyedika’s stoppage-time strike was comfortably saved. Elsewhere, Benin Republic’s goalless draw against Libya was enough to book their spot in Morocco on goal difference.
The Super Eagles finished top of Group D with 11 points, followed by Benin with eight. Rwanda also ended with eight points but fell short due to goal difference, while Libya ended at the bottom with five points.