The Super Eagles were defeated 2-1 by Rwanda in a final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo on Tuesday night. This marked Rwanda’s first-ever win over Nigeria in full international competition.
Despite the disappointing loss on home soil, the Super Eagles topped Group D with 11 points from six matches. Rwanda finished with 8 points but failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON after Benin secured a goalless draw with Libya in Tripoli, advancing on a superior goal difference.
The Super Eagles took the lead in the 59th minute thanks to a brilliant solo effort by substitute Samuel Chukwueze. He darted through the heart of the packed Rwanda defense before firing a low shot past goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari.
However, Rwanda equalized in the 72nd minute when Jummy Mutsinzi powered a header beyond Nigeria’s goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. Just three minutes later, Innocent Nshuti put Rwanda ahead with another header.
In the 50th minute, Victor Boniface’s header off a Moses Simon corner was denied by Ntwari, who was named Man of the Match after his standout performance, including a crucial save when the teams played to a 0-0 draw in Kigali in September.
The first half was uneventful, with Kelechi Iheanacho having the only clear chance of the period. His left-footed shot was well saved by Ntwari.
