AFCON Qualifiers: Rwanda Shocks Nigeria with 2-1 Comeback Victory

Rwanda delivered a stunning upset on Monday, defeating Nigeria’s Super Eagles 2-1 in their final Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D qualifier in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Despite the loss, Nigeria had already secured qualification for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, finishing as group leaders with 11 points.

The game began cautiously, with the first half ending goalless as both teams missed critical chances. Nigeria took the lead in the 59th minute when Samuel Chukwueze found the net, energizing the home crowd. However, Rwanda responded with resilience.

Aimable Mutinzi equalized in the 72nd minute, and just three minutes later, Imanishimwe Nshuti scored the winner, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to complete the comeback. Nshuti, who was later cautioned for time-wasting, emerged as the hero for the underdogs.

The result saw Rwanda finish third in the group with 8 points, narrowly missing out on qualification. Benin, also with 8 points, secured second place on goal difference to join Nigeria at the tournament. Libya finished at the bottom with 5 points.

While the defeat was a disappointment, the Super Eagles remain favorites heading into the competition, where they aim to reclaim continental glory.