Rwanda’s Captain Emphasizes Team’s Confidence Ahead of Clash with Super Eagles
As Rwanda faces off against the Super Eagles in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, their captain, Djihad Bizimana, is stressing that his team is not intimidated by the Nigerian squad’s star power.
For Rwanda, a win against the Super Eagles is crucial to securing a spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament. With this in mind, Bizimana acknowledges the impressive talent within the Nigerian team, noting that many of their players are competing in European leagues. However, he remains optimistic about Rwanda’s potential to challenge the three-time African champions.
“We know Nigeria has talented players, but we’re not letting that intimidate us,” Bizimana said in a pre-match interview. “Our goal is to qualify for AFCON next year, and we’re prepared to give it our all.”
In the meantime, interim coach Austin Eguavoen is expected to introduce new faces and provide opportunities for fringe players in the final match of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Rwanda. The Super Eagles have already secured their spot at the tournament, following Libya’s recent victory over Rwanda and their impressive performances in earlier matches.
The Super Eagles have enjoyed recent home victories against Benin (3-0) and Libya (1-0) and will be looking to continue this trend against Rwanda. With the lack of pressure on the team, fans may anticipate Eguavoen taking the opportunity to assess some players on the margins of the squad.
First-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will not be participating due to the loss of his father, allowing Maduka Okoye to step in as the starting goalkeeper. In terms of strategy, Eguavoen might consider resting either William Troost-Ekong or Calvin Bassey to provide a platform for newcomers like Gabriel Osho and Victor Collins.
In midfield, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s participation is uncertain due to a minor injury. With the team’s AFCON spot secured, Eguavoen may decide to play it safe and keep him on the bench, instead giving essential playing time to Alhassan Yusuf, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika, while allowing Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi some rest.
Up front, Victor Boniface and Sadiq Umar are poised to lead the attack. Although Boniface has been a steady presence in the team, he has yet to score for Nigeria, and this match could provide the pressure-free environment he needs to find the back of the net. Meanwhile, Sadiq is working to regain his form following an injury setback last season. With the relaxed atmosphere surrounding this match, it might be just what he needs to make a significant impact.
