The Nigeria Super Eagles played to a goalless draw with Rwanda in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match on Tuesday.
The match, held in Kigali, saw Nigeria fail to convert several chances despite their dominant performance.
This result follows a convincing 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo on Saturday.
Nigeria now has four points in their qualifying group after two matches.
The game was marked by strong performances from both teams’ goalkeepers.
The Rwandan goalkeeper made several crucial saves to keep the Super Eagles from scoring.
In the 94th minute, Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen had a chance to secure a win with a header, but the Rwandan goalkeeper was again up to the task.
Earlier, in the 87th minute, Rwanda had a chance from outside the box, but Nigerian goalkeeper Adebayo Nwabali made a key save to prevent them from taking the lead.
Throughout the match, Nigeria struggled to find the back of the net despite multiple attempts.
Taiwo Awoniyi came on in the 92nd minute, replacing Ademola Lookman, but was unable to break the deadlock.
Rwanda’s defense proved difficult to penetrate, as shown by several near misses from Nigerian players.
In the 73rd minute, Osimhen’s shot from inside the box was saved by the Rwandan keeper.
Similarly, Lookman’s shot off a long throw-in from Ola Aina in the 71st minute was also well-blocked.
Nigerian coach Augustine Eguavoen had earlier made substitutions, including bringing in Frank Onyeka for Wilfred Ndidi and Raphael Onyedika for Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
These changes, however, did not lead to a breakthrough for the Super Eagles.
In the first half, Nigeria had several chances to score.
Boniface’s shot in the 36th minute hit the crossbar after a good dribble past a Rwandan defender.
Lookman also had a header ruled out for an infringement in the 21st minute.
Rwanda was not without their opportunities.
In the 28th minute, Boniface’s attempt was blocked by the Rwandan defense.
Rwanda’s pressure was evident as they had multiple chances in the first half.
In the 18th minute, the Rwandans created a flurry of opportunities in Nigeria’s box, putting the Super Eagles’ defense under strain.
The game kicked off with Rwanda starting strong, and Nigeria’s Bruno’s early shot was deflected in the 2nd minute.
The match was a test of resilience for both teams, with neither able to secure a decisive goal.
Nigeria’s inability to score despite their attacking prowess will be a point of concern for coach Eguavoen.
The Super Eagles had dominated possession and created several chances but could not find a way past the Rwandan defense.
The draw means Nigeria must improve their finishing as they continue their campaign in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
The result leaves both teams with much to play for as the qualifying rounds continue.
Nigeria will look to build on their performance in future matches, while Rwanda will take pride in their defensive effort.
The Super Eagles will need to address their attacking inefficiencies as they prepare for their next fixture.
