Super Eagles confident of securing win in Rwanda, play down past records

By Dayo Awoniyi

The Nigeria’s senior national team are determined to secure all three points against Rwanda in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match on Friday, despite their poor historical record on Rwandan soil.

Nigeria and Rwanda have faced off five times in the past, with the Super Eagles yet to win in Kigali. The hosts have defeated Nigeria three times, while the teams have shared two draws in their previous encounters.

However, with all invited players now in Kigali and training ramping up, the Super Eagles are focused on the task ahead and are confident of securing the win needed to rejuvenate their World Cup qualifying campaign.

Team captain William Troost-Ekong played down the significance of Nigeria’s past struggles in Rwanda, saying the team is determined to move past history.

“We have read about that in some places, but we are not bothered,” Ekong said.

“I was part of the last game in Kigali, which ended in a scoreless draw, but we know we cannot afford another draw this time. Our aim is to get the three points and bring some life back into our campaign.”

Ekong emphasized that the team’s focus remains solely on qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“We are not concerned about history. Our priority is to qualify for the World Cup, and we’re determined to achieve that.”

The Super Eagles will feature a strong squad, including reigning African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, and several other key players ready to change their fortunes against Rwanda.

Newly appointed head coach Éric Sékou Chelle, leading the team for the first time, will rely on his array of talented stars as they aim for a winning start in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.