The match started on a tense note, with both teams eager to assert dominance but cautious not to make early mistakes. Fouls punctuated the opening exchanges, with players jostling for control in midfield.
Rwanda's first corner came in the 18th minute, sparking some hope for an early lead, but the chance was wasted. Moses Simon of Nigeria showcased his skill with a brilliant dribble and pass to Victor Boniface in the 23rd minute, but the forward failed to control the ball inside the box.
Amavubi captain Djihad Bizimana picked up the first yellow card of the match in the 25th minute after a foul on a Nigerian wingback. Just minutes later, Bonheur Mugisha followed suit with a booking for a reckless tackle on Alhassan Yusuf. By halftime, the match was locked at 0-0, with neither side able to find a breakthrough despite a few close calls.
The second half began with renewed energy from both teams. Nigeria made two key substitutions, bringing on Chukwueze Samuel and Frank Onyeka. Chukwueze made an immediate impact, scoring a stunning goal in the 58th minute after dribbling past four Rwandan defenders. His precise left-footed finish left goalkeeper Ntwari Fiacre helpless, putting Nigeria ahead 1-0.
Despite the setback, Amavubi showed resilience and determination. Ange Mutsinzi capitalized on a defensive lapse by the Nigerians in the 72nd minute, heading home a well-delivered cross from Kwizera Jojea to level the score.
The goal reignited hope among Rwandan fans and players alike. Just three minutes later, Innocent Nshuti sent Rwandans into a frenzy with a brilliant finish off Emmanuel Manishimwe's perfectly timed pass, giving Amavubi a 2-1 lead.
The closing minutes were nerve-wracking. Nigeria, desperate to salvage the game, unleashed waves of attacks led by Victor Osimhen, who came off the bench in the 77th minute.
The Super Eagles came close on several occasions, but Rwanda's defense held firm. Goalkeeper Clement Twizere, who had replaced the injured Ntwari, made a series of crucial saves to deny the Nigerians.
As the final whistle blew, Amavubi players and fans celebrated an unforgettable victory. It was a rare triumph over Nigeria, a football powerhouse, marking a high point in the qualification campaign.
However, news from Tripoli soon dampened the mood. Libya's failure to beat Benin meant that both Nigeria and Benin qualified for AFCON 2025, leaving Rwanda out despite their remarkable performance.
This campaign will be remembered as one of Amavubi's best in recent history. Rwanda secured victories against both Nigeria and Benin, showcasing their growth and potential. However, the team paid the price for inconsistency, particularly in their matches against Libya, where they failed to pick up reasonable points.
Rwandan football fans were left with mixed emotions. For Hirwa Muzungu, the campaign was a step forward despite the disappointment. 'We showed heart and determination today, and this win against Nigeria is something to be proud of. Yes, we made silly mistakes earlier in the campaign, especially against Libya, but the team has grown. I believe we'll come back stronger next time,' he said.
Amavubi's failure to qualify for AFCON 2025 extends a 20-year drought since their last appearance in the tournament in 2004. That year, Rwanda impressed by defeating DR Congo and earning a draw against Guinea, but they narrowly missed out on the quarterfinals.
The heartbreak of that campaign echoes in this one, as the team once again showed promise but fell short of reaching the continent's grand stage by a whisker.
Despite the disappointment, Rwanda's performance in the qualifiers offers hope for the future. The team demonstrated its ability to compete against stronger sides, and the win against Nigeria will serve as a source of pride and motivation.
The victory over Nigeria is a reminder of what the team is capable of when they play with determination and unity. With lessons learned and the support of a passionate fan base, Rwandans will look to the future with renewed belief in their potential.
Sam K Nkurunziza
