Kigali, Rwanda – In the wake of a disheartening 1-0 defeat to Libya on home soil, Rwanda’s head coach Frank Spittler has urged his players to rise to the occasion in their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Nigeria.

The Wasps’ loss to Libya’s Mediterranean Knights at Kigali’s Amahoro Stadium on Thursday leaves their AFCON qualification hopes hanging by a thread. Substitute Fahd Saad Mohamed delivered the decisive blow for Libya in the 84th minute, capitalizing on Rwanda’s missed opportunities earlier in the match.

Currently third in Group D with five points from five matches, Rwanda’s path to AFCON qualification is narrow. They not only need to beat Nigeria in Uyo on Monday, November 18, but also require Libya to defeat Benin in Tripoli.

“Play for History,” Says Spittler

Addressing reporters after the match, Spittler acknowledged the daunting task ahead. He conceded that defeating the star-studded Super Eagles on their home turf would be a monumental challenge but emphasized the importance of fighting until the end.

“As long as there’s a chance to qualify, we will do everything for it,” Spittler declared. “The chance to win in Nigeria is not very high, but there’s always a chance, and that’s what I tell my players.”

The German tactician motivated his squad with a message of pride and legacy. “When you are a grandfather, you’ll talk about this match. Whether we qualify or not, this is an opportunity to show your best football against some of the world’s best players,” he said.

Spittler also reflected on their previous encounter with Nigeria, a game in which Rwanda displayed flashes of brilliance but failed to capitalize. “It’s always about whether you score or not. Today wasn’t our day, but maybe we’ll have a very nice day in four days.”

Super Eagles Hold the Upper Hand

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles, already guaranteed to top Group D, approach the clash with less pressure. They secured their position after battling Benin’s Cheetahs to a 1-1 draw on Thursday, a result that solidified their dominance in the group.

While the odds favor Nigeria, Spittler’s rallying cry could inspire the Wasps to deliver a spirited performance in Uyo. Whether or not it results in qualification, Rwanda’s encounter with the Super Eagles promises to be a story worth telling for generations.