As the Super Eagles prepare to face Rwanda in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, Amavubi captain Bizimana Djihad has made it clear that his team is not intimidated by the Super Eagles and is aiming for an upset.
The Super Eagles are currently in Kigali for Friday’s decisive encounter, but history is not on their side. Nigeria have never beaten Rwanda on their home soil, setting up an intriguing battle.
The last three encounters in Rwanda all ended in draws, including a 1-1 result in a 2006 World Cup qualifier and two goalless draws in AFCON qualifiers in 2011 and 2023.
With Rwanda leading Group C with seven points, a positive result will further strengthen their position, while Nigeria, still searching for their first win, cannot afford another setback.
Rwanda unfazed by Super Eagles stars – Djihad
Captain of the Wasps, Djihad, acknowledged Nigeria’s reputation but maintained that his team is fully prepared for the challenge.
“There is nothing to worry about. We have already played them twice, and I think most of them are here,” he said.
“We respect them as a big team with big names, but as players, we are focused on ourselves and what we are doing in training.”
Rwanda will take confidence from their last meeting with Nigeria, when they secured a 2-1 comeback victory in Uyo during the 2025 AFCON qualifiers last November.
The Amavubi currently top Group C of the Africa zone of the FIFA 2026 World Cup with seven points, ahead of South Africa on goal difference.
Nigeria are fifth with three points after four games, ahead of bottom placed Zimbabwe who are on two points.
