Rwanda delivered a stunning performance on Monday, defeating already-qualified Nigeria 2-1 in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.
The match saw Nigeria take the lead in the 59th minute with a brilliant solo effort from Samuel Chukwueze, but Rwanda responded in dramatic fashion, scoring two quick goals to silence the Nigerian home crowd and secure a historic win.
Despite the victory, Rwanda’s hopes of qualifying for the tournament were dashed as they finished third in Group D, falling short of the second qualification spot to Benin Republic, who advanced on superior goal difference.
The defeat also ended Nigeria’s hopes of completing the qualification campaign unbeaten. The Super Eagles were already assured of their place in the 2025 AFCON after Libya’s defeat to Rwanda on Thursday.
Nigeria went into the match without key players, including Ademola Lookman (Atalanta), Ola Aina (Fulham), and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United), who was excused following the loss of his father. Interim coach Austine Eguavoen made several changes to the lineup, opting to bench star striker Victor Osimhen and start Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye.
The first half saw the Super Eagles create several chances, but they lacked the finishing touch, and both teams went into the break 0-0.
In the second half, Nigeria’s breakthrough came in the 59th minute when Chukwueze picked up a loose ball in midfield, danced past three defenders, and fired into the net to give Nigeria the lead.
However, Rwanda hit back in the 72nd minute through Mutsinzi Ange, who plays for Azerbaijan’s Zira FK. Just three minutes later, Nsuti Innocent struck again, beating Okoye at his near post to put Rwanda 2-1 up.
In a bid to salvage the game, Nigeria introduced Osimhen and Sadiq Umar, but the changes had no effect as Rwanda held firm to secure a memorable victory over the three-time AFCON champions. The two sides will meet again next year in the 2026 World Cup qualification race.
Despite the win, Rwanda’s qualification hopes were ended. They finished third in the group with 8 points, the same as Benin Republic, but the Cheetahs progressed due to a better goal difference. Libya, who lost to both teams, ended last in the group with just 5 points.
