Despite already securing qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Nigeria’s Super Eagles suffered a surprising 2-1 defeat to Rwanda’s Wasps in front of their home fans in Uyo. Samuel Chukwueze’s brilliant solo goal initially put the hosts ahead, but two quick strikes from Ange Mutsinzi and Innocent Nshuti sealed a historic victory for the visitors. Here are five major observations from the match.

1. Eguavoen’s Overhaul: Seven Changes to the Starting Lineup

With qualification already guaranteed, interim coach Austin Eguavoen rotated heavily, making seven changes to the lineup that faced Benin. Maduka Okoye returned in goal, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Alhassan Yusuf, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Raphael Onyedika, Moses Simon, and Victor Boniface featured in the starting XI.

Defender Gabriel Osho retained his spot to make his home debut alongside William Troost-Ekong, while Calvin Bassey was benched, and Ola Aina was rested after returning to his club, Nottingham Forest. Despite the fresh faces, the Super Eagles lacked cohesion and struggled to dominate.

2. Iheanacho’s Continued Struggles Raise Concerns

Kelechi Iheanacho, given a rare starting opportunity, delivered another underwhelming performance. The Sevilla forward, who struggled in the previous match against Benin, failed to make an impact again and was substituted for Samuel Chukwueze at halftime.

Iheanacho’s poor club form appears to have spilled over into his national team duties, raising questions about his inclusion in future Super Eagles squads. His back-to-back subpar outings under Eguavoen highlight the need for more consistent contributions from the experienced forward.

3. Set-Piece Vulnerabilities Haunt Nigeria Again

Defensive frailties at set pieces continued to plague the Super Eagles. Despite boasting a strong defensive record in the qualifiers, the team struggled to deal with a well-delivered cross from Jojea Kwizera, which Ange Mutsinzi headed home to level the game in the 72nd minute.

This recurring weakness cost Nigeria dearly and serves as a warning ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Rwanda exploited the flaw expertly, making their intentions clear for their March 2025 rematch with the Super Eagles.

4. Complacency Costs Nigeria After Taking the Lead

After Samuel Chukwueze’s stunning solo goal in the 61st minute, Nigeria appeared to relax, allowing Rwanda to grow into the game. The Super Eagles failed to maintain their intensity, conceding twice within three minutes to relinquish control.

Innocent Nshuti’s 75th-minute goal, a composed finish through the legs of Maduka Okoye, epitomized Rwanda’s determination to seize their moment. Nigeria’s lapse in focus after taking the lead highlights the importance of maintaining concentration throughout the match.

5. Rwanda’s Heroic Ntwari Exits Injured

Fiacre Ntwari, Rwanda’s goalkeeper, was instrumental in keeping the Super Eagles at bay with crucial saves, including an impressive stop to deny Alhassan Yusuf’s header. However, his night ended prematurely due to a suspected hamstring injury.

Ntwari, who also shone in the reverse fixture in Kigali, was substituted in the 69th minute, leaving Clement Twizere Buhake to finish the game. His absence moving forward could be a blow to Rwanda’s hopes in the World Cup qualifiers.

Conclusion

While the Super Eagles remain group winners and have secured their spot in Morocco, this defeat serves as a wake-up call. For Rwanda, this historic victory is a morale boost as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.