Nigeria’s Super Eagles were frustrated in a 0-0 draw against Rwanda on Tuesday during their second match of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Despite dominating much of the game, the Super Eagles could not find a way past Rwanda’s resolute defense in Kigali, extending their unbeaten record against the Amavubi to six games.
After an impressive 3-0 victory over Benin Republic, expectations were high for Nigeria to continue their strong start in the qualifiers.
Coach Austin Eguavoen made just one change to the starting lineup, replacing Alex Iwobi with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, while top scorer Victor Osimhen began the game on the bench.
Nigeria controlled the match from the outset, with Ademola Lookman emerging as the team’s primary threat.
In the 22nd minute, Lookman thought he had opened the scoring for the Super Eagles, but his goal was ruled out for offside.
Moments earlier, Victor Boniface had struck the post with a powerful effort, but the rebound could not be converted.
Despite several chances, Nigeria could not find the breakthrough before halftime. Eguavoen responded by introducing Osimhen and Moses Simon at the start of the second half in an attempt to add more attacking firepower.
Rwanda, buoyed by the presence of President Paul Kagame in the stands, remained steadfast in defense. Goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari delivered a standout performance, making several key saves, including a last-minute stop from an Osimhen header that kept the match level.
Despite relentless pressure from Nigeria in the closing stages, Rwanda held on to secure the draw.
With the result, the Super Eagles remain top of Group D with four points, while Rwanda sits in second place with two points.
Nigeria will look to bounce back in their next qualifier when they host Libya in October, as they aim to return to winning ways.
