Rwanda delivered an impressive performance on Monday, defeating already-qualified Nigeria 2-1 in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.
Despite their victory, Rwanda fell short of qualification, as the group’s second ticket went to the Benin Republic.
Samuel Chukwueze gave Nigeria the lead in the 59th minute with a brilliant solo effort, but two quick goals from the Amavubi turned the game around, stunning the home crowd and earning Rwanda a historic win.
Nigeria’s hopes of completing the AFCON qualification series unbeaten were dashed following a disappointing defeat.
The Super Eagles had already secured their spot in the 2025 AFCON after Libya’s victory over Rwanda on Thursday but entered the final group game missing key players. Ademola Lookman (Atalanta), Ola Aina (Fulham), and Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali—granted leave following his father’s passing—were unavailable.
Interim coach Austine Eguavoen opted for a rotated squad, resting star striker Victor Osimhen and starting Udinese’s Maduka Okoye in goal. The first half saw Nigeria create some opportunities but fail to capitalize, leaving the scoreline goalless at the break.
Early in the second half, Nigeria took the lead through AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze, who skillfully dribbled past three Rwandan defenders before finding the back of the net. However, Rwanda responded in the 72nd minute when Zira FK defender Mutsinzi Ange scored the equalizer. Just three minutes later, Nsuti Innocent beat Okoye at his near post to give the East Africans a 2-1 lead.
In a bid to salvage the game, Eguavoen introduced Osimhen and Sadiq Umar, but their efforts were in vain as Rwanda held on for a historic win over the three-time African champions.
Despite the victory, Rwanda missed out on AFCON qualification, finishing third in Group D with eight points—the same as Benin, who advanced due to a superior goal difference. Libya ended the campaign at the bottom of the group with five points.