Nigeria’s Super Eagles are set to face Rwanda’s Amavubi on Monday in their final Group D match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Despite already securing qualification and topping the group, the three-time African champions are determined to maintain their unbeaten run.
Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen has pledged a strong performance, even as the team deals with the absence of key players, including Ademola Lookman, Stanley Nwabali, and Olaoluwa Aina.
“We are determined to sustain our recent form and spirit as we prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers resuming in four months,” Eguavoen said in a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Key Absences
Lookman, who has scored twice in the qualifiers, exited camp after sustaining a knock in Thursday’s match against Benin Republic. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also left following the death of his father, while Olaoluwa Aina returned to Nottingham Forest for club duties.
Despite these setbacks, Eguavoen expressed confidence in his squad’s depth. “The absence of Nwabali, Aina, and Lookman will not stop our momentum. This team is built to adapt, and we have players ready to step in and deliver,” he assured fans.
Tactical Adjustments and Key Players
The Super Eagles are expected to make lineup changes, with Maduka Okoye likely returning in goal, Bright Osayi-Samuel filling in for Aina at right wingback, and Bruno Onyemaechi covering the left. Captain William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey are set to anchor the central defense.
In midfield, options include Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka, alongside emerging talents like Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Upfront, Victor Osimhen will lead the attack, supported by Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Sadiq Umar.
Osimhen, who secured Nigeria’s group leadership with a decisive goal against Benin, is keen to make an impact. “This is a chance to not only win but also to show our readiness for bigger challenges ahead,” the Galatasaray striker said.
Strategic Importance
While Nigeria has already qualified for AFCON 2025, the match against Rwanda holds significance as both teams are grouped together for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Monday’s clash offers a psychological edge ahead of their next meeting in March 2025.
Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, with fans eager to see the Super Eagles close out their qualifiers on a high note.
