Preview: Rwanda vs. Nigeria - prediction, Insights, lineups

Kelvin A. Amaniampong Match Analysis 10 September 2024 Hits: 163

As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers heat up, Nigeria will face Rwanda in the second round of their campaign. The Super Eagles, fresh off a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin, travel to Rwanda with their sights set on another three points. Meanwhile, the Wasps of Rwanda are hoping to build on their 1-1 draw with Libya in their opening game.

Match Facts: 📈📉

📈Nigeria is undefeated in their last nine away league matches.
📈Rwanda has only won once in their last 20 AFCON qualifiers.
📈Nigeria has won four straight away AFCON qualifying matches.
📈Rwanda’s recent matches have been low-scoring, with under 2.5 goals in their last seven games.

Match Preview:📝📝

Nigeria comes into this match riding high after a convincing 3-0 win over Benin last Saturday. Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has restored confidence in the squad, with Ademola Lookman’s brace and Victor Osimhen’s goal highlighting the Super Eagles’ firepower.

Rwanda’s only AFCON appearance came in 2004, and since then, the Wasps have been on a long journey trying to return to Africa’s biggest stage. Their qualifying campaign began with a respectable 1-1 draw against Libya, thanks to a second-half equalizer from Innocent Nshuti. Now unbeaten in two consecutive games, Rwanda will be aiming to pull off an upset against Nigeria.

Predicted Lineups: 👥👥

Image Credit: Supersports

Rwanda:🇷🇼 Ntwari; Omborenga, Mutsinzi, Manzi, Niyomugabo; Rebangouka, Bizimana; G Mugisha, Muhire, Kwizera; Nshuti

Nigeria:🇳🇬 Nwabali; Ekong, Ajayi, Bassey; Aina, Ndidi, Iwobi, Onyemaechi; Lookman, Osimhen, Chukwueze

Key Players to Watch:⚽️⚽️

🇷🇼Rwanda: Innocent Nshuti – After scoring against Libya, Nshuti will be key in Rwanda’s attack, especially if they hope to breach Nigeria’s defense.

🇳🇬Nigeria: Ademola Lookman – Fresh off his Ballon d'Or nomination, Lookman was instrumental in Nigeria's opening match, scoring twice. His creativity and goal-scoring ability will be a major threat to Rwanda.

Conclusion: 📝📝

While Rwanda will put up a fight in front of their home crowd, Nigeria's quality and recent form make them strong favorites to pick up another three points. Lookman and Osimhen are expected to be the key difference-makers once again as the Super Eagles continue their push for AFCON qualification.

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