Because of a greater goal differential, Benin Republic was selected as the second ticket in the group.Rwanda defeated already-qualified Nigeria 1-2 on Monday in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier thanks to an outstanding performance. Nigeria had taken the lead thanks to a spectacular solo effort from Samuel Chukwueze in the 59th minute.
But two quick-fire goals from the Amavubi silenced the Nigerian home crowd and handed a historic win to the Rwandans.Notwithstanding the victory, the Rwandans lost to the Benin Republic, who selected the second ticket in the group, and were therefore unable to advance to the competition.Nigeria’s hopes of finishing the qualification series undefeated were dashed by the loss.
Following Libya’s victory over Rwanda on Thursday, the Super Eagles entered the match already qualified for the 2025 AFCON.Ademola Lookman of Atalanta, Ola Aina of Fulham, and Chippa United’s safe hands were absent from Nigeria. Stanley Nwabali entered the final competition qualifying match after being excused due to the death of his father.
As anticipated, interim coach Austine Eguavoen unveiled a significantly altered starting lineup, starting Udinese custodian Maduka Okoye in goal and benching star striker Victor Osimhen.
The Super Eagles had some opportunities in the first half but lacked the decisive edge to take advantage of them. After failing to find the net, both teams went into the tunnel all square.The game continued without many opportunities for either team when the second half resumed. Chukwueze of AC Milan, however, grabbed a loose ball in the middle and squirmed past three Rwandans before striking the goal. One goal for the home team!But in the 72nd minute, Mutsinzi Ange, a player for Zira FK of the Azerbaijan Premier League, gave the East Africans a response.
Three minutes later, Nsuti Innocent added the second for Rwanda, beating Okoye in his near post. In search of an equaliser, Nigeria threw Osimhen and Sadiq Umar into the fray. Their introduction did not make any difference as the Amavubi secured a historic victory over the three-time African champions who they will meet next year in the qualification race for the 2026 World Cup.
Rwanda failed to earn an AFCON ticket in spite of the victory. They drew their match against Libya on Monday and finished third with eight points, tied with the Benin Republic, who selected the second ticket in Group D (the Cheetahs of Benin had a better goal differential). Libya had five points and was last in the group.
