Rwanda held Nigeria’s Super Eagles to a frustrating 0-0 draw in their second match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Despite Nigeria’s dominance for most of the game, the Super Eagles were unable to break through the Rwandan defense, which remained disciplined and resilient throughout the match.
Following Nigeria’s commanding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic just days earlier, expectations were high for another win that would preserve the Super Eagles’ perfect record in the qualifiers. However, Rwanda proved to be a much tougher opponent than anticipated.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen made only one change to the lineup from the previous game, swapping Alex Iwobi for Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in the starting eleven. Victor Osimhen, who had also started from the bench in the game against Benin, was once again kept out of the starting lineup.
From the start, Nigeria took control of the match, with Ademola Lookman, in exceptional form, constantly troubling the Rwandan defense. Lookman thought he had given Nigeria the lead in the 22nd minute, but his goal was ruled offside by the referee, a decision that sparked disagreement among Nigerian fans who felt it was a legitimate goal.
Despite continued pressure, Nigeria couldn’t find a way to score, leaving them to settle for a goalless draw.
