National Teams
AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Nigeria to miss key players for Rwanda clash
By Wale Mustapha
Nigeria’s women’s national team will be without several key players when they face Rwanda in their final qualifying match for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Monday.
The match, which is set to take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, will see the three-time AFCON champions missing some significant names due to various reasons.
Having already secured their place in the tournament proper following Thursday’s 1-1 draw against Benin Republic, Coach Augustine Eguavoen’s side will now turn their attention to completing the qualification campaign with a positive result against Rwanda.
However, several players will be absent for the final match.
Ola Aina, the versatile defender, will miss the encounter after being excused from the squad and returning to his club base. The absence of Aina, who has been a reliable presence in the Super Eagles’ defense, is a blow for Nigeria’s backline.
Another key absence will be Stanley Nwabali, the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper. Nwabali, who has been a standout performer for Nigeria, was informed of the tragic passing of his father shortly before the Benin Republic match.
The Chippa United captain is expected to be granted time to mourn his loss, meaning he may miss the Rwanda clash as well.
Additionally, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of Lazio is a doubt for the match after picking up a knock prior to Nigeria’s encounter with Benin Republic. The midfielder, who has been an important part of the squad, might not feature due to the injury.
Despite these absences, Coach Eguavoen has a strong and compact squad, and selection will remain a non-issue for the coach.
The Super Eagles have the depth and talent to adjust and field a competitive side against Rwanda, as they aim to finish their qualification campaign on a high note.
With qualification already secured, the focus now shifts to ensuring that the Super Eagles remain sharp and prepared ahead of the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, and a solid performance against Rwanda will set the tone for the final tournament preparations.
