This loss caused Amavubi to drop two places in Group C standings, as Benin and Zimbabwe drew 2-2, while South Africa defeated Lesotho 2-0 to take the top spot. Now, Amavubi must fight to restore their pride in their next match against Lesotho on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
Player ratings (Starting XI)
Ntwari Fiacre â€" 7: The former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper could do little to stop the two goals but made a crucial save from Moses Simon in the first half to keep Rwanda in the game.
Fitina Omborenga â€" 5: The Rayon Sports right-back struggled both defensively and offensively. His poor performance likely led to the quick decision to call up another defender for his position.
Mutsinzi Ange â€" 6: The best-performing defender in the backline. After the match, he even received a jersey gift from Victor Osimhen. However, he couldn't replicate his previous strong performances against Nigeria.
Manzi Thierry â€" 3: A disappointing display. Both goals came from his mistakesâ€"he failed to mark Osimhen for the first goal and directly gifted Nigeria the second goal.
Niyomugabo Claude â€" 4: The APR FC captain struggled throughout the match. Many Rwandan fans missed the presence of Imanishimwe Emmanuel "Mangwende", who could have made a difference but was absent due to injury.
Mugisha Bonheur â€" 6: Nicknamed "Casemiro", he tried his best to compete in midfield but couldn't match the intensity of Nigeria's midfielders.
Bizimana Djihad â€" 7: The Amavubi captain proved once again why he is one of Rwanda's top players. Nigeria had already identified him as Amavubi's most dangerous player, and he showed glimpses of his quality.
Hakim Sahabo â€" 5: Despite being preferred over Frank Trosten, he failed to make a significant impact. He was expected to press Nigeria's defense but did not live up to expectations.
Jojea Kwizera â€" 5: If coach Amrouche insists on using him, he should be played as a left-back, where he has been performing well for his club. This would help cover Mangwende's absence while allowing another attacker to play in his usual position.
Samuel Gueulette â€" 5: Many fans disagreed with his early substitution. He was often in good positions but didn't receive enough passes.
Nshuti Innocent â€" 4: Known as "Pastor", he was ineffective in attack, making it easy for Nigeria's defense to dominate.
Substitutes
Mugisha Gilbert â€" 7: Despite not being a starter for APR FC, he made an immediate impact after coming on. Rwanda started attacking more, and he was responsible for all the shots on target against Nigeria.
Muhire Kevin â€" 6: Played well in his limited minutes but failed to capitalize on a key chance near the penalty box.
Ruboneka Bosco & Habimana Yves: Played too few minutes to be rated.
Coach
Adel Amrouche â€" 6: Difficult to judge in his first game, but his starting lineup choices were questionable. Many fans are waiting to see how he adjusts against Lesotho.
IGIHE
