The Super Eagles of Nigeria have touched down in Kigali as they prepare for a crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Rwanda on Tuesday.
Fresh from a dominant 3-0 win against Benin on Saturday, the team will be aiming to continue their strong start to the qualifiers.
Nigeria’s victory at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo saw goals from Ademola Lookman, who bagged a brace, and substitute Victor Osimhen.
The win marked the Super Eagles’ first competitive victory since their participation in the last AFCON held in Ivory Coast.
Following the match, the players rested before flying to Kigali on Sunday morning via a chartered ValueJet flight.
Nigeria arrive Kigali, ready to face the Amavubis
They arrived at approximately 5 PM Nigerian time and proceeded to their hotel to settle in ahead of Tuesday’s match.
All the players in the 23 man squad made the trip to Kigali.
Super Eagles interim coach Austin Eguavoen, after touching down in Kigali said his team is ready to do Nigeria proud and get all three points against Rwanda.
“We have the right mentality now, and the mood in camp is excellent. Everyone in camp is eager for us to pick up the three points in Rwanda and stay firmly on top of the qualifying table., ” he said.
“We are here for business and I am happy that everyone is on the same page.
“I am also happy that we have arrived here in good time, and the players can rest well while we look forward to the official training on Monday afternoon.” Eguavoen added
Rwanda, nicknamed the Amavubi, earned a point in their opening group game after a draw against Libya on Thursday.
Super Eagles ready to soar over Rwanda
A win for Rwanda could see them temporarily top the group standings.
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles will aim for another win, which would put them within touching distance of qualification for the 2025 AFCON to be hosted by Morocco.
The match is set to be played at the 30,000-capacity Amahoro Stadium by 2 pm Nigerian time.
Historically, Nigeria has had the upper hand against Rwanda, winning two and drawing three of their last five encounters.
As the group battle heats up, Benin and Libya will also clash in Abidjan on Tuesday.
Victory for Nigeria could put them firmly in control of their qualification destiny as they seek to return to Africa's number one continental showpiece – the AFCON.
