Super Eagles finish top of group despite 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in Final AFCON Qualifier

The Super Eagles suffered a 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in their final 2025 AFCON qualifier in Uyo on Tuesday night, marking Rwanda’s first-ever victory over Nigeria at full international level.

Despite the disappointing home loss, Nigeria topped Group D with 11 points from six matches.

Rwanda finished with eight points but failed to qualify for Morocco 2025 after Benin held hosts Libya to a goalless draw, advancing on a better goal difference.

The Super Eagles took the lead in the 59th minute, with substitute Samuel Chukwueze showcasing individual brilliance. He sprinted through the heart of Rwanda’s defense and fired a low shot that beat goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari.

However, Rwanda equalized in the 72nd minute when Jummy Mutsinzi scored with a header past Nigeria’s goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. Just three minutes later, Innocent Nshuti put the visitors ahead with another header.

Earlier, in the 50th minute, Victor Boniface’s header from a Moses Simon corner was saved by the impressive Ntwari, who was named Man of the Match in their previous goalless draw in Kigali in September.

The first half was largely uneventful, with the only clear chance coming from Kelechi Iheanacho, whose left-footed strike was denied by Ntwari.