As the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, former West Brom and Nigeria defender Ifeanyi Udeze has sounded the alarm. His concerns stem not from baseless fear but from personal experience—he’s been in the trenches before.

“I remember playing in Kigali; it was never easy,” Udeze recounted. “We struggled, and I think we managed a 1-1 draw. I even set up a goal for Yakubu Aiyegbeni (or was it Obafemi Martins?). That tells you how tough it can be.”

The Super Eagles have historically found Rwanda to be a stubborn opponent. In their last two meetings during the AFCON 2025 qualifiers, Nigeria only managed a 1-1 draw in Kigali and a narrow 2-1 victory in Uyo. With the stakes now higher, failure to secure maximum points could derail their World Cup qualification hopes.

Despite the looming challenge, Udeze remains hopeful. “Nigeria has the quality to win, but we need more than talent. Our players give their all for their clubs—if they can bring that same intensity and give more than 100 percent, we have a strong chance.”

Currently sitting fifth in Group C, the Super Eagles are in desperate need of a win to revive their campaign. Head coach Eric Chelle knows that anything less than victory could spell disaster. As the team prepares to face Rwanda in Kigali, they must summon all their strength, experience, and determination—because history has proven that this battle will not be an easy one.