Rwanda vs Nigeria Preview: Super Eagles seek crucial win in World Cup qualifier

By Dayo Awoniyi

Nigeria are gearing up for a must-win World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, with both teams desperate for a positive result to keep their World Cup dreams alive.

The clash, scheduled for Friday, March 22, at 4:00 PM local time (2:00 PM WAT) at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, is set to be a pivotal moment in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Nigeria, currently languishing with just three points from four matches, is under intense pressure to secure all three points in Kigali.

Newly appointed head coach Eric Chelle has made it clear that anything less than a win is unacceptable. “We need to win this game,” Chelle emphasized in his pre-match statements, calling the encounter “non-negotiable” for Nigeria’s World Cup hopes.

Rwanda, meanwhile, is eager to capitalize on Nigeria’s struggles. The Amavubi have had an inconsistent campaign, with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five outings.

However, a victory over Nigeria would not only be a major upset but also a massive boost to Rwanda’s own qualification aspirations.

Historically, Nigeria holds the upper hand in their meetings with Rwanda as The Super Eagles have won three of their five encounters, with one match ending in a draw and Rwanda securing tust one victory. Nigeria has netted 10 goals against Rwanda, while the Amavubi have scored four.

In terms of recent form, Rwanda comes into this match with a mixed record, having won two, drawn one, and lost two of their last five games. Nigeria, on the other hand, has struggled with one win, one draw, and three losses in their most recent five fixtures, heightening the stakes for the Super Eagles.

With both teams hungry for a win, Friday’s match is set to be an intense and thrilling affair. Can the Super Eagles rise to the occasion and secure the vital points they need, or will Rwanda’s Amavubi deliver a shock result to turn the tables in Group C? The answer will come at Amahoro Stadium on Friday.