Rwanda shocks Super Eagles in Uyo with late comeback victory. It’s te first time Rwanda would win Nigeria in any encounter.
In a surprising turn of events, Rwanda shocks Super Eagles with a 2-1 victory in the final match of the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, left fans and pundits alike stunned as the Super Eagles suffered a shocking defeat at home.
The Super Eagles, already qualified for next year’s tournament in Morocco, started strong. Samuel Chukwueze, who replaced the underperforming Kelechi Iheanacho, gave Nigeria the lead in the 59th minute.
Chukwueze’s brilliant solo run into the box and calm finish sent the home crowd into celebration. However, what followed was a dramatic twist as Rwanda mounted a comeback that no one saw coming.
Rwanda shocks Super Eagles with dramatic comeback
Rwanda, needing a win to keep their slim hopes of qualification alive, responded in the 72nd minute. Ange Mutsinzi scored the equalizer with a header from a freekick that beat Maduka Okoye, who was starting in goal for Nigeria for the first time in almost three years. The goal silenced the home crowd and gave Rwanda a glimmer of hope.
Just 12 minutes later, Rwanda shocks Super Eagles again. Nshuti Innocent found the net with a powerful shot that put Rwanda ahead. The ball crashed into the back of the net, leaving Okoye and the Nigerian defense helpless. Rwanda held onto their lead until the final whistle, securing an unexpected and historic 2-1 victory.
The loss marked a disappointing end to Nigeria’s perfect record at home during the qualifiers. Despite having already secured their place in the AFCON, the Super Eagles’ shock defeat to Rwanda raises questions about their form and readiness heading into next year’s tournament.
For Rwanda, the win over Nigeria came as a major boost. Although they did not qualify for AFCON, the victory over one of Africa’s top teams is a significant achievement. It highlighted their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
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