The Super Eagles of Nigeria ended their qualifying series ahead of the 2025 African Cup of Nations with a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
The Super Eagles had initially booked the top spot in the group ahead of the competition that will be hosted in Morocco next year (2025). Nigeria came into the game against Rwanda with some of the first-team players returning to their clubs since the fixture was inconsequential.
The first half ended goalless as both sides failed to create chances as they lacked urgency when they got to the final third of the opponents.
The second half started with intensity from both sides, the Super Eagles interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen made two quick substitutions. Samuel Chukwueze replaced Iheanacho while Frank Onyeka came on for Yusuf after he suffered a heavy tackle in the first half.
Chukwueze broke the deadlock with a solo effort in the 59th minute. Picking up the ball from Onyeka in midfield, he skillfully evaded three defenders before slotting it into the bottom right corner of the net.
Rwanda came back into the game with two quick goals in three minutes which was enough for them to claim all three points.
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