Nigeria’s Super Eagles face Rwanda on Saturday in a crucial World Cup qualifier. A win is the only option if they want to stay in the race for a place at the 2026 tournament.
With just 7 points from 6 matches, Nigeria are in a dangerous position in Group C. South Africa lead the group with 13 points, while both Rwanda and Benin sit above Nigeria with 8 points each.
If Nigeria fail to win in Uyo, their chances of qualifying could be over—especially with a tough trip to South Africa just three days later.
Poor Form and Pressure
Since the start of the qualifiers, Nigeria have only won once—against Rwanda in Kigali back in March. They’ve dropped points in draws against Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and South Africa, and lost to Benin.
Head coach Eric Chelle, who took over in January 2025, is now under serious pressure to deliver.
Past Meetings
Nigeria have won 3 of their 8 previous matches against Rwanda and only lost once. But that one loss was painful—a 2-1 defeat in Uyo last year during the AFCON qualifiers.
Nigeria got their revenge in March with a 2-0 away win, thanks to Victor Osimhen’s two goals. However, this weekend’s match is even more important—it’s for a place at the World Cup.
Team News
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Stanley Nwabali is back in goal after recovering from a small injury.
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Semi Ajayi is out, which could give Chidozie Awaziem or young Benjamin Fredrick a chance to start.
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Calvin Bassey is expected to play left-back, as he does for Fulham.
In midfield, there are many options but no fixed partnership. Players like Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Christantus Uche are all competing to start.
Up front, Victor Osimhen will lead the attack. He has scored 3 of Nigeria’s last 4 goals in this campaign. His strike partner is unclear—Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, and Uche are all in the mix.
On the wings, Moses Simon, in good form for Paris FC, is expected to start. Samuel Chukwueze, who just joined Fulham from AC Milan, is another strong option.
Rwanda’s Approach
Rwanda’s coach Adel Amrouche usually plays it safe. His team often switches from a 4-2-3-1 to a defensive 5-4-1 against stronger teams, focusing on defending deep and hitting on the counter.
Key players:
Expected Line-Ups
Nigeria (4-4-2 diamond):
Nwabali; Aina, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi; Iwobi, Chukwueze; Simon; Uche, Osimhen
Rwanda (5-4-1):
Ntwari; Niyomugabo, Manzi, Mutsinzi, Ngwabije, Omborenga; Mugisha, Niyigena, Hamon, Bizimana; Kagere
What They Said
Djihad Bizimana (Rwanda captain):
“We respect Nigeria, but we’re focused and ready. We’ve played them before, and we’re not afraid.”
Moses Simon (Nigeria):
“We must win. It doesn’t matter who scores. The team just wants three points.”
What’s at Stake?
Nigeria are in real danger of missing out on the World Cup. A draw or loss at home would leave them stuck in mid-table—and under even more pressure ahead of Tuesday’s match in South Africa.
Coach Chelle’s future could depend on these next two games. His team needs to be solid in defence, creative in midfield, and deadly in front of goal—especially from Osimhen.
For Rwanda, the aim is simple: defend well, stay organised, and try to hit Nigeria on the break. They’ve done it before—winning 2-1 in Uyo last year.
Match Details
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Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers – Group C
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Match: Nigeria vs Rwanda
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Venue: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo
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Date: Saturday, 6 September
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Time: 5:00 PM (Nigerian time)
Prediction
Nigeria haven’t been convincing in this campaign, but with Osimhen fit and key players like Simon and Nwabali available, they should have enough to win.
Rwanda will try to defend deep and frustrate, but Nigeria should find a breakthrough.
Prediction: Nigeria 3-1 Rwanda