Nigeria’s journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been plagued by frustration and underperformance: with zero wins in four matches, the Super Eagles are fifth in Group C, trailing Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe.
They have managed only three draws and one defeat under Jose Peseiro and Finidi George, leaving their World Cup hopes hanging by a thread.
Now, Eric Chelle takes charge at a critical moment, tasked with reviving a struggling team that cannot afford another setback. With Rwanda leading the group on seven points, four ahead of Nigeria, Friday’s clash at the Amahoro Stadium is a must-win fixture.
On paper, this should be a straightforward contest for Nigeria. But recent results tell a different story. The Super Eagles have failed to beat Rwanda in their last two meetings, a 0-0 draw in Kigali and a 2-1 defeat in Uyo during the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
If they are to reverse this worrying trend, here are three key areas they must address.
1. Regain midfield control
One of the biggest issues in Nigeria’s 0-0 draw in Kigali was the lack of control in midfield.
Alex Iwobi was dropped for Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and while the Super Eagles looked more attacking, they were also vulnerable defensively. The game became too open, allowing Rwanda to create dangerous counterattacks.
This had a knock-on effect on the defence, particularly William Troost-Ekong, who endured one of his shakiest performances for Nigeria.
With Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi and Alexander Iwobi available for selection, Chelle must get his midfield balance right, ensuring defensive stability while maintaining attacking fluidity.
2. The Super Eagles need to be more clinical in front of goal
Nigeria created plenty of chances in both previous meetings against Rwanda but failed to convert them.
In the away leg, Rwandan goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari was made to look like a world-class shot-stopper as Nigeria’s finishing let them down.
The Super Eagles must improve their decision-making in the final third. Whether it’s Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, or Victor Boniface, Nigeria’s attackers must be clinical.
3. Time to end the Boniface experiment
While Victor Boniface has been outstanding for Bayer Leverkusen, his struggles at international level cannot be ignored.
He has managed just one goal in 11 appearances for Nigeria and looked ineffective in both games against Rwanda.
His physical presence is an asset, but he has yet to adapt to the unpredictability and intensity of African football.
Osimhen and Ademola Lookman have thrived in a front two, and Chelle should go with this combination rather than continuing the Boniface experiment.
4. Fix the wide areas
In the 0-0 draw in Kigali, Samuel Chukwueze had a poor game, struggling with his dribbles and final delivery.
Nigeria’s wingers have historically been a strength, but recent performances suggest otherwise.
In the shocking 2-1 loss in Uyo, Moses Simon was largely ineffective, with his dribbles lacking purpose and end product.
Chelle must ensure his wide players, whether it’s Chukwueze, Moses Simon, or Bright Osayi-Samuel (wingback), are more effective. The Super Eagles need width and delivery to stretch Rwanda’s defense and create better chances.
5. Stay compact and disciplined
Nigeria’s defensive organization has been a concern. In Uyo, after taking the lead, the team lost focus and allowed Rwanda to score twice in a comeback victory.
Chelle must instill better discipline and game management.
The Super Eagles cannot afford to be reckless or lose concentration, especially against a Rwandan side that thrives on counter-attacks and set pieces.
