The Super Eagles of Nigeria were held to a disappointing goalless draw by Rwanda in their second match of the 2024 AFCON qualifying campaign. Despite coming off an impressive 3-0 victory against the Benin Republic in Uyo, Austin Eguavoen’s men struggled to break down a resilient Rwandan side in Kigali.
Nigeria dominated possession and looked threatening in spells, with Ademola Lookman coming close to scoring in the early stages. The Atalanta winger did find the net in the 22nd minute, but the goal was ruled out for offside. In the first half, Victor Boniface nearly opened the scoring, hitting the post with a powerful strike, but Nigeria’s forwards, including Lookman and substitute Victor Osimhen, failed to convert their chances.
The Super Eagles’ inability to find the back of the net cost them the win, but the solitary point from the draw keeps them at the top of Group D in the AFCON qualifiers with four points.
Editorial
Nigeria’s goalless draw against Rwanda is a reminder that football matches are not won on individual quality alone. Despite dominating possession and creating chances, the Super Eagles were wasteful in front of goal, and Rwanda’s disciplined defence held firm.
Coach Austin Eguavoen will likely be frustrated by his team’s failure to convert opportunities, especially after such a confident performance against the Benin Republic. The introduction of Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon in the second half did not change the outcome, indicating that Nigeria must improve their clinical finishing if they are to progress comfortably through AFCON qualification.
However, it’s important to recognize the positives from the match. Nigeria’s defence remained solid, and the team still managed to stay on top of their group. With better composure in the final third, the Super Eagles can quickly turn these draws into victories.
Did You Know?
- The draw against Rwanda leaves Nigeria top of Group D in AFCON qualifiers with four points.
- Victor Boniface, one of Nigeria’s forwards, recently received a Ballon d’Or nomination.
- Nigeria’s 3-0 win against Benin Republic in Uyo was their first match of the AFCON qualifying campaign.
- Austin Eguavoen, Nigeria’s coach, previously managed the Super Eagles during the 2021 AFCON tournament.
- Rwanda managed to keep Nigeria from scoring despite the Super Eagles fielding some of their top attacking talents, including Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen.
