Super Eagles Gear Up for Final Group Match Against Rwanda Despite Key Absences

Nigeria‘s national football team, the Super Eagles, are set to face off against Rwanda‘s Amavubi in their final Group D match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The fixture, taking place on Monday, November 18, 2024, at Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, promises to be a competitive encounter despite Nigeria having already secured their spot in the tournament.

Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen has pledged that the three-time African champions will aim for victory, despite the absence of several key players. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been granted compassionate leave due to the passing of his father, while defender Olaoluwa Aina and forward Ademola Lookman have left the squad for club commitments and injury concerns, respectively.

A press release from the Nigeria Football Federation highlighted Eguavoen’s intent to maintain the team’s unbeaten streak. «We are determined to sustain our recent form and spirit as we prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers resuming in four months,» he stated.

In their upcoming match, the Super Eagles aim to continue showing their prowess, despite recent player withdrawals. Aina returned to his club, Nottingham Forest, to address fitness concerns and prepare for their next match in the English Premier League, while Lookman, who has been excused due to fitness issues, was nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

The match against Rwanda holds additional significance as both teams are grouped together for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, set to continue in March 2025, giving Nigeria a chance to gain a psychological advantage.

Despite the absence of key players, Eguavoen remains confident. «The absence of Nwabali, Aina, and Lookman will not stop our momentum. This team is built to adapt, and we have players ready to step in and deliver,» he affirmed.

The Nigerian squad remains robust, with replacements like Maduka Okoye, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Bruno Onyemaechi expected to fill in critical positions. Midfielders such as Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka are expected to provide strong support, while Victor Osimhen will lead the attack.

Osimhen, who is approaching a significant career milestone by potentially surpassing former captain Olusegun Odegbami’s goal tally for Nigeria, expressed his eagerness for the game. «This is a chance to not only win but also to show our readiness for bigger challenges ahead,» the striker stressed.