AFCON Qualifier: Eguavoen reveals why Chukwueze was substituted against Rwanda

By Saheed Afolabi

Nigeria’s interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has provided insight into why Samuel Chukwueze was substituted at halftime during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Rwanda.

Chukwueze, who had been a significant threat to the Rwandan defense, was replaced by Moses Simon after receiving a yellow card. With Chukwueze on a yellow card and Nigeria already having three players booked, there was a concern about the risk of a second yellow card, which could have led to his dismissal from the game.

Eguavoen stated, “Chukwueze is very good, he’s one of our key players. He was tormenting the Rwandan defense, but we had to make a strategic decision.”

He elaborated, “We had three players on yellow cards, and it was a bit risky to keep him on the pitch. We didn’t want to take any chances with the possibility of him getting a second yellow card and being sent off.”

Eguavoen was clear that the decision was not a reflection of Chukwueze’s performance, saying, “We thought Chukwueze should rest, not because he’s not playing well, but because of the risk of a second yellow card. We have other players who can press forward and contribute effectively.”

Despite the goalless draw, Nigeria leads their AFCON qualifiers group with four points from two matches.