The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face off against the Amavubi of Rwanda today, on Matchday 7 in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
This match is a must-win for the Super Eagles, who currently sit in fourth place in Group C with seven points from six matches.Rwanda, on the other hand, is sitting second on the group with eight points.
Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup are dwindling, and a win against Rwanda is essential to revive their campaign.
The team’s current position in the group standings is a far cry from their expected performance, and fans are eagerly waiting for a turnaround.
According to Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze, he is fully focused on helping Nigeria secure maximum points in their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clashes against Rwanda and South Africa after sealing a deadline-day move to Fulham.
The Super Eagles winger joined the Premier League side on a season-long loan from AC Milan, with an option to buy reportedly worth over €25 million.
The transfer reunites him with compatriots Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey at Craven Cottage.
Speaking to Fulham FC TV after completing the switch, Chukwueze made it clear that his attention has now shifted to international duty.
“For now I am just focusing on the game. We need the two games, Rwanda and South Africa. So, I think we have to win the two games to secure our World Cup ticket. Now I’ve secured this one (Fulham move), so I’m going to focus on getting the job done for Nigeria,” Chukwueze said.
This will be the fourth meeting between Nigeria and Rwanda in two years, adding a layer of familiarity and rivalry to the fixture.
The teams previously met in two Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, the first leg in Kigali ended in a 0-0 draw, while the second leg in Uyo saw Rwanda secure a surprising 2-1 victory over Nigeria.
The Super Eagles then defeated Rwanda 2-0 in the first leg of the World Cup qualifier in Kigali earlier this year, setting the stage for a massive return leg clash.
Nigeria cannot afford to drop points,as another slip could leave them with a mountain to climb in the final rounds of qualification.
Rwanda, on the other hand, know that even a draw could keep them well within touching distance of a top-two finish.
Rwanda unveiled a massive squad for the game in Nigeria as new coach Adel Amrouche included a mix of local talents and overseas-based players.
Nigeria on the other hand will unleash their attacking talent of Victor Osimhen, Tolu Arokodare, Chrisantus Uche and reigning African Footballer of the year Ademola Lookman.
The Super Eagles will be hoping to secure the much needed three points in Uyo, today, before travelling to Bloemfontein to face South Africa at the Toyota Stadium on Tuesday, September 9.
