The Rwandan male national football team has created an upset after defeating the Nigerian team, Super Eagles, 2-1 at home during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
However, the victory could not earn the Rwandans a spot in the biannual tournament scheduled for 2025 after losing the second slot in the group to the Benin Republic.
After the game played on Monday, Rwanda and Benin had eight points each but the East African nation lost the second spot to their West African counterpart on goal difference.
However, Nigeria had already qualified for AFCON 2025 in Morocco, finishing top of the group with 11 points.
Samuel Chukwueze gave Nigeria the lead in the 59th minute, delighting the home crowd. Rwanda, however, quickly responded, with Aimable Mutinzi equalising in the 72nd minute.
Just three minutes later, Imanishimwe Nshuti completed the comeback, sealing a memorable win for Rwanda.
The first half ended goalless, with both teams missing opportunities to take control.
In the second half, Nigeria’s early dominance faltered as Rwanda capitalised on defensive lapses. Nshuti, who was later booked for time-wasting, emerged as the hero for the visitors.
Despite the defeat, Nigeria topped Group D with three wins, two draws, and one loss, earning 11 points. Benin and Rwanda both finished with 8 points, but Benin secured second place on goal difference to join Nigeria in the tournament proper.
Libya finished at the bottom of the group with 5 points.
