Nigeria’s Super Eagles wrapped up their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D qualifiers with a surprising 2-1 defeat to Rwanda.
The match took place on Monday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where the Rwandan team showed impressive determination by coming from behind to claim the win.
Despite this loss, Nigeria had already secured their spot in AFCON 2025, set to be held in Morocco, finishing at the top of their group with 11 points.
Samuel Chukwueze put Nigeria ahead in the 59th minute, much to the delight of the home fans. However, Rwanda quickly answered back, with Aimable Mutinzi scoring the equalizer in the 72nd minute.
Just three minutes later, Imanishimwe Nshuti completed the comeback, sealing a memorable win for Rwanda.
The first half ended goalless, with both teams missing opportunities to take control.
In the second half, Nigeria’s early dominance faltered as Rwanda capitalised on defensive lapses. Nshuti, who was later booked for time-wasting, emerged as the hero for the visitors.
Despite the defeat, Nigeria finished at the top of Group D with three wins, two draws, and one loss, accumulating a total of 11 points. Both Benin and Rwanda ended the qualifiers with 8 points each, but Benin claimed second place on goal difference, thereby joining Nigeria in securing a spot in the tournament.
Libya ended the qualifiers at the bottom of the group, with just 5 points.