The Super Eagles of Nigeria were held to a goalless draw by Rwanda in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match. The game, played in Kigali, saw both teams fighting hard but failing to break the deadlock, resulting in a 0-0 scoreline.
Nigeria, fresh off a 3-0 victory against Benin Republic in Uyo just days earlier, hoped to secure another win to boost their points tally in the group. However, Rwanda’s resolute defense and standout performance from their goalkeeper ensured that the Super Eagles did not have it easy.
The match began with Rwanda showing early promise, creating several chances within the first few minutes. Nigeria’s Wilfred Ndidi responded with a long-range shot in the fourth minute, but it was expertly parried by the Rwandan goalkeeper.
The Super Eagles had opportunities to score through Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Osimhen, but the Rwandan defense held firm.
Despite Nigeria’s attempts to dominate possession, Rwanda continued to pose a threat, forcing Nigerian goalkeeper Nwabali to make crucial saves, especially in the dying moments of the match.
In the 87th minute, Rwanda nearly grabbed a surprise lead with a powerful shot from outside the box, but Nwabali kept the scores level.
In stoppage time, Nigeria pushed hard for a winner, with Victor Osimhen’s header almost clinching the victory, but once again, the Rwandan goalkeeper made a crucial save to keep the game scoreless.
The Super Eagles made multiple substitutions, including bringing on Taiwo Awoniyi and Frank Onyeka, in hopes of changing the game’s dynamic, but the breakthrough never came.
Both teams will now look ahead to their next qualifying matches, with Nigeria sitting on four points in the group, while Rwanda earned a valuable point from this encounter.
