Boniface, Okoye underperformed, midfield still a problem… analysing Nigeria’s defeat to Rwanda

In a thrilling final group D qualification match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Nigeria welcomed Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, with Rwanda pulling off a stunning 2-1 victory over Nigeria, overturning a one-goal deficit with a comeback.

Playing Pattern

The Super Eagles adopted a structured 4-3-3 system, emphasizing wing play and quick transitions. Kelechi Ihenacho, Moses Simon and Victor Boniface formed the core of the attacking strategy, with full-backs to offer additional attack style. While Nigeria’s technical superiority was evident in their quick ball movement and dominance in possession, they struggled to convert opportunities into goals.

Defensively, their high defensive line left them vulnerable to Rwanda’s quick counterattacks, a weakness that proved decisive.

Rwanda showcased a 4-3-3 formation, using a stable defense and maximizing counterattacks. In the first half, they absorbed Nigeria’s pressure, relying on their disciplined midfield to shield the backline. In the second half, their tactical switch to a more aggressive approach allowed them to exploit Nigeria’s defensive lapses. Their transitions were marked by long passes from either side of the pitch and quick interplays.

Key Moments

Late in the first half, a strike from Ihenacho was averted by the Rwanda goalkeeper, Ntwari, Samuel Chukwueze who came on in the 46th minute to replace Ihenacho provided the opening goal of the match after a clever build-up play, dribbling past defenders from 40 yards out to the opponents’ penalty box in the 59th minute and took a shot at goal to put Nigeria ahead.

However, in the 72nd Minute, Rwanda breakthrough for their impressive efforts came as Aimable Mutsinzi equalized with a towering header from a perfectly delivered corner, leaving Nigeria’s goalkeeper Maduka Okoye with nothing to do in stopping the attempt at goal. This goal marked a shift in momentum, energizing the Rwandan side to push for victory which ultimately came in the 75th Minute through Innocent Nshuti’s strike, starting with a swift counterattack, his movement off the ball and composed finish gave the Amavubi’s a deserved lead.

Key Player Performances

Chukwueze was Nigeria’s brightest spark, utilizing his pace and dribbling to penetrate Rwanda’s defense. While his goal showcased his attacking skills, his influence was reduced as Rwanda tightened their marking and controlled the midfield. Asides Chukwueze, Simon was another player who gave quality in the match, making dribbles even in dangerous areas, providing passes in the final third and creating more goal scoring chances than any other player from both teams which were wasted by fellow team mates.

However, Boniface and Okoye performed badly, with Boniface not showing enough threat in the attack or utilizing goal chances created by other team mates and Okoye not doing much to prevent goals, although, justified that the Nigerian defense setup in the match, especially in the second half did not put more of a fine display.

On the other hand, Rwanda’s Mutsinzi was a commanding presence in defense and instrumental in set-pieces. His equalizer was not just critical in terms of scoreline but also in boosting Rwanda’s confidence to push for the win. Nshuti’s performance was a masterclass in efficient forward play.

His decisive goal proved his sharp instincts and ability to exploit poor defensive setup. His movements throughout the match created spaces for teammates and kept Nigeria’s defense greatly disturbed. Regardless, Ntwari efforts at stopping shots was also instrumental in Rwanda’s victory, especially the one from Ihenacho.

Match Analysis

The Super Eagles defensive vulnerabilities is a critical concern if they are to succeed in the upcoming tournament. Despite their attacking talent, their inability to maintain focus in defensive transitions exposed them to Rwanda’s counterattacking strategy. Augustine Eguavoen’s side must address this inconsistency to avoid similar upsets in future matches.

Their midfield control was notable but lacked pure intent and decisiveness, often giving away balls to opponent, not making sharper passes to move the attack and making free kick opportunities to opponents closer to the 18-yard box, which halts their ability to break down a compact defense consistently. Rwanda’s performance highlighted their growth under coach Spittler.

Their disciplined defense and efficient attacking were hallmarks of their strategy. The win reflects their ability to adapt tactically and take advantage of opponents’ weaknesses.

Rwanda’s victory over Nigeria is a milestone that reflects the growing competitiveness of African football. For Nigeria, it serves as a wake-up call to address defensive frailties and find better balance between their attacking intent and defensive responsibilities.

However, Rwanda despite their victory will still not qualify for the 2025 AFCON as they sit third in the group with 8 points same with Benin Republic who drew Libya, meanwhile, their tactical discipline and resilience suggest they could be dark horses in upcoming AFCON tournaments.