Gernot Rohr, the head coach of Benin’s Cheetahs, has shared insights into Nigeria’s shocking 2-1 loss to Rwanda in their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, marked a rare defeat for the Super Eagles, who had already secured their place in the tournament.

The Super Eagles entered the game with nothing to prove, having clinched top spot in Group D after Libya’s earlier victory over Rwanda. In contrast, Rwanda, Benin, and Libya were locked in a fierce battle for the second qualification spot. Augustine Eguavoen, Nigeria’s interim manager, opted for a heavily rotated squad, introducing seven new starters, including Maduka Okoye, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Victor Boniface.

Despite Samuel Chukwueze’s stunning solo effort that gave Nigeria the lead in the second half, the Wasps turned the game around with goals from Mutsinzi and Nshuti in the final 20 minutes. The result handed Rwanda a historic victory over the three-time African champions.

Reflecting on the game, Rohr—who previously managed Nigeria for five years—attributed the loss to complacency. “I know this team well from my time with them,” Rohr remarked in comments relayed by Fraternité. “Sometimes, when they have already qualified, they relax. This can give opponents a chance to spring surprises, as Rwanda did.”

The victory was not enough for Rwanda to secure a ticket to Morocco, as Benin edged them out on head-to-head records after both teams finished with eight points. Benin’s qualification capped a dramatic conclusion to Group D, leaving Rohr’s men celebrating while Nigeria nursed their pride.