The Super Eagles huffed and puffed but were unable to break down Rwanda’s resolute defence, resulting in a 0-0 draw at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.
Following their comprehensive 3-0 victory over Benin in their opening 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying group game, Nigeria came into the match full of confidence.
The Super Eagles dominated possession and created several chances to go ahead in the first half but failed to capitalise on them.
The second half mirrored the first, with Nigeria continuing to push forward. Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen led the charge, but Rwanda’s goalkeeper and defence held firm, denying Nigeria the breakthrough as points were shared at the Amahoro Stadium.
Here are the individual player ratings from the Super Eagles' goalless draw with the Amavubi of Rwanda:
Stanley Nwabali – 8.5/10
Had little of note to do throughout the first half. Nevertheless, it was an assured performance from the goalkeeper, who handled every challenge well when called upon. His distribution was also effective in building Nigeria’s attacks, and he remained solid in goal.
William Troost-Ekong – 7/10
A solid presence at the back, Troost-Ekong had an assured game against Rwanda. Constantly organising the defence, he performed a captain’s duty, keeping the team composed and defensively sound.
Ola Aina – 7/10
Comfortable down the right flank, Aina combined well with Samuel Chukwueze. His long throws caused a few problems for the Rwandan defence, and he was defensively solid throughout the match.
Semi Ajayi – 7/10
Ajayi was composed on the ball and defended his lines effectively. He ventured forward occasionally, adding an aerial threat to Nigeria’s attack. Overall, a solid performance from the West Brom defender.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 7.5/10
Chosen ahead of Alex Iwobi, Dele-Bashiru’s tireless running and energy helped propel Nigeria forward. He was solid in the tackle and created opportunities for Lookman and Chukwueze to exploit. His performance suggests he may keep his place in future games.
Bruno Onyemaechi – 7.5/10
Onyemaechi was impressive in the first half, nearly scoring from an Ajayi cross.
Defensively, he was strong and delivered one of his best performances for the national team, showing composure under pressure and contributing well to the attack with crosses.
Victor Boniface – 6/10
Boniface struggled to start but grew into the game, becoming a threat to the Rwandan defence. He came close to scoring when his shot hit the crossbar in the first half. While not his best performance, it wasn’t his worst either.
Calvin Bassey – 7/10
Initially shaky, Bassey improved as the game progressed, linking well with Ajayi and Troost-Ekong to shut out Rwanda’s attack in the first half.
He only faltered once, losing his marker, who tested Nigeria’s goal in the second half.
Samuel Chukwueze – 6/10
Chukwueze was a constant threat on the right wing, troubling Rwanda’s defence with his pace.
However, his delivery in the final third was inconsistent, and his crosses could have been better. It was a game he will likely want to move on from quickly.
Wilfred Ndidi – 6.7/10
Alongside Dele-Bashiru, Ndidi did the hard work in midfield, putting in tackles and supporting Nigeria’s attack. His graft was vital, but fatigue set in towards the end, leading to his substitution.
Ademola Lookman – 8/10
Lookman continued his impressive form from the previous match, where he scored twice. He remained a constant offensive threat against Rwanda, with his pace and trickery causing problems.
Lookman had a goal ruled out but was arguably Nigeria’s best performer on the day, only lacking finishing quality.
Substitutes
Victor Osimhen – 7/10
Osimhen linked up well with Lookman and Moses Simon, helping to raise Nigeria’s tempo in the second half. However, he was denied twice by Rwanda’s goalkeeper, missing key chances to secure a win.
Moses Simon – 6/10
Simon made an impact down the left flank in his brief appearance, delivering a few dangerous crosses into the box that were unfortunately not utilised by his teammates.
Raphael Onyedika – 6.5/10
Onyedika came on to steady the midfield and succeeded in doing so. Rwanda struggled to create opportunities after his introduction.
Frank Onyeka – 7/10
Onyeka added solidity to the midfield when he came on, breaking up play and recovering possession effectively for Nigeria.
Taiwo Awoniyi – N/A
Came on late for Lookman but did not have enough time on the pitch to make a significant impact.
