Nigeria vs Rwanda: Key players, prediction… All to know about Super Eagles’ last AFCON Qualifiers game
AFCON: Nigeria held by Benin Republic. Photo credit: Imago
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will play host on 18th November, 2024 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo to the Amavubis of Rwanda meet in their final game for the AFCON qualifier. Nigeria, although already qualified for the tournament will be looking to cement their dominance in the group and Rwanda aiming for a shock result to keep their hopes alive.
The clash showcases contrasting football philosophies; Nigeria’s fluid, attacking style versus Rwanda’s disciplined approach.
The Super Eagles have been a force in attack during this qualification campaign. Led by Austin Eguavoen, their 3-4-3 formation or more specific 3-4-2-1 maximizes the strengths of key players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, defensive lapses have cost Nigeria goals, particularly against teams with quick counterattacking setups and good knowledge on utilizing set pieces.
In their most recent fixtures, the Super Eagles have shown resilience, notably rallying to draw against Benin Republic. Their firepower upfront often compensates for defensive vulnerabilities, making them one of Africa’s most entertaining teams to watch.
Rwanda on the other hand have made a good impression as underdogs, with a focus on defensive organization and counterattacks. Playing in a compact 4-4-2 specifically a 4-4-1-1 or a 4-3-3 system, they rely on disciplined defensive lines and quick transitions to trouble their opponents. Their recent form includes grinding out narrow wins and frustrating draws, exemplifying their ability to hold their own against superior teams.
The Amavubi’s strength lies in their teamwork and physicality, but their lack of cutting-edge finishing in attack remains a concern. Jacques Tuyisenge, their talisman, has been key to their limited offensive output, with Emery Bayisenge anchoring a defense that often punches above its weight.
Osimhen, the Galatasaray striker is Nigeria’s main weapon, combining pace, power, and clinical finishing to terrorize defenses. More also, Lookman, with his agility and eye for goal is an added advantage to Nigeria’s attack and Alex Iwobi, the Fulham midfielder’s ability to make goal scoring chances and dictate tempo will be crucial in breaking Rwanda’s compact shape.
However, Rwanda’s Tuyisenge, the experienced forward’s physicality and poaching instincts make him Rwanda’s solo threat and Bayisenge, a composed presence at the back, his ability to read the game and organize the defense will be vital in withstanding Nigeria’s attacks.
The Super Eagles will dominate possession and look to use their pace on the flanks to break down Rwanda’s deep defensive block. The fullbacks, often playing high, will be key in overlapping runs, while the midfield trio must maintain balance to avoid being caught on the counter.
However, it will be bad to underestimate Amavubis. Hence, a high expectation for them to sit deep, absorb pressure, and look for quick counters through their wingers or long balls to Tuyisenge. They’ll prioritize defending set-pieces while trying to capitalize on their own limited opportunities in dead-ball situations.
Nigeria’s firepower and technical superiority should see them emerge victorious, but Rwanda’s defensive discipline will ensure they don’t go down without a good fight. A 2-0 or 3-1 win for Nigeria appears likely, based on the fact that they are playing on home soil and in their recent home games, they always take the victory, with Osimhen and Lookman likely to find the net.
Rwanda’s best chance lies in disrupting Nigeria’s rhythm and converting a rare counter or set-piece opportunity. This game promises to showcase the contrasts in African football styles, with Nigeria’s attacking flair meeting Rwanda’s resolute defense.
