Patrick Kelechi, Lagos
DAILY COURIER - The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face Rwanda's Amavubi on Monday in their final Group D qualifier for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Despite already securing their place in Morocco and topping the group, Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen has affirmed the team's commitment to maintaining their winning momentum.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers looming in four months, the three-time African champions are using this fixture to fine-tune their form and spirit. However, the team will be without goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defender Olaoluwa Aina, and forward Ademola Lookman, whose absences will not deter their determination, according to Eguavoen.
Key absences in the squad
Stanley Nwabali, the first-choice goalkeeper, was excused to mourn the passing of his father. Meanwhile, Olaoluwa Aina returned to England at the request of his club, Nottingham Forest, as Nigeria had already secured AFCON qualification. Ademola Lookman, who has netted two goals during the qualifiers, suffered an injury in last Thursday's clash against Benin Republic and left camp on Saturday.
Despite these setbacks, the Super Eagles remain focused. The match against Rwanda holds added significance, as both teams are in the same group for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with Rwanda being Nigeria's next opponent in March 2025.
Line-up adjustments
Former first-choice goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is expected to return between the sticks, while Bright Osayi-Samuel is likely to take up the right wing-back position in Aina’s absence. Bruno Onyemaechi will feature at left wing-back, flanked by Captain William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey in central defense.
In midfield, options include Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Raphael Onyedika.
Upfront, Victor Osimhen, who scored the decisive goal in the last game against Benin Republic to secure Nigeria’s AFCON ticket, will lead the attack. With 21 goals for the national team, Osimhen is aiming to surpass Olusegun Odegbami in the all-time goal tally. The absence of Lookman places additional responsibility on Moses Simon, while Samuel Chukwueze, Sadiq Umar, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Victor Boniface vie for attacking roles.
Coach Eguavoen emphasized the importance of building momentum for future competitions. “Every game is a learning opportunity and a chance to refine our strategies. The team is focused, and we will go for victory,” he said.
The Super Eagles will be looking to replicate their solid performance in the qualifiers and build confidence heading into a competitive year of international football.
The match against Rwanda promises to showcase Nigeria’s depth and tactical readiness as they continue their preparations for Morocco 2025 and beyond.
