Nigeria vs Rwanda Prediction, Preview, H2H, Lineups,

Nigeria vs Rwanda

Nigeria vs Rwanda: A Complete Match Preview, Prediction, Head to Head Analysis, Possible Lineups and Team News.

Competition: Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers
Group: D
Fixture: Nigeria National Football Team vs Rwanda National Football Team
Date: Monday, November 18, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM GMT (6:00 PM WAT)
Venue: Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, Nigeria.

The Nigeria vs Rwanda matchup marks the sixth and final game in Group D of the AFCON Qualifiers. While Nigeria has already secured their place in the next round, Rwanda still harbors hopes of advancing and will aim for a solid performance against the Super Eagles.

Both teams come into this fixture with contrasting runs of form and objectives, making this a decisive encounter for the visitors and an opportunity for the hosts to finish the group stage on a high note.

Nigeria’s Form and Team News

Nigeria National Football Team, under the management of Augustine Eguavoen, has been consistent throughout the qualifiers. The Super Eagles are unbeaten in Group D, with three wins and two draws. Their last outing ended in a 1-1 draw against Benin, where they displayed a disciplined performance.

Key Players for Super Eagles

Victor Osimhen: Victor Osimhen is Nigeria’s top scorer in the qualifiers and will be a critical attacking threat.
Ademola Lookman: A versatile forward capable of unlocking defenses with his speed and creativity.
Wilfred Ndidi: A midfield enforcer who balances Nigeria’s attack and defense.

Predicted Nigeria National Football Team Lineup (3-4-2-1):

Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabili
Defenders: Gabriel Osho, William Troost-Ekong (C), Calvin Bassey
Midfielders: Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Bruno Onyemaechi
Forwards: Kelechi Iheanacho, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen

Rwanda’s Form and Team News

Rwanda, managed by Torsten Spittler, faces a tough task in this fixture. Currently third in Group D, they need a win to stand any chance of progressing. However, their form has been inconsistent, with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five matches.

Key Players for Rwanda National Football Team

Innocent Nshuti: The forward has scored twice in the qualifiers and will lead Rwanda’s attack.
Djihad Bizimana: The captain anchors the midfield and contributes defensively.
Jojea Kwizera: A dynamic winger who can create chances from wide positions.

Predicted Rwanda National Football Team Lineup (4-3-3):

Goalkeeper: Fiacre Ntwari
Defenders: Fitina Ombolenga, Ange Mutsinzi, Thierry Manzi, Emmanuel Imanishimwe
Midfielders: Djihad Bizimana (C), Bonheur Mugisha, Samuel Gueulette
Forwards: Jojea Kwizera, Innocent Nshuti, Gilbert Mugisha

Nigeria vs Rwanda: Head-to-Head Record

Nigeria and Rwanda National Football Team have met only twice, with both games ending in goalless draws. These encounters highlight the tightly contested nature of their matchups.

Head-to-Head Matches:

January 16, 2018: Nigeria 0-0 Rwanda (AFCON 2018)
September 10, 2024: Rwanda 0-0 Nigeria (AFCON Qualifiers)

Key Players to Watch

Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)

The Atalanta forward has been in sensational form, contributing with goals and assists for both club and country. Ademola Lookman‘s quick feet and intelligence in the attacking third make him a key player for Nigeria.

Innocent Nshuti (Rwanda)

Nshuti has been Rwanda’s standout player in the qualifiers, with crucial goals against Benin and Libya. His ability to find space and capitalize on chances will be vital against Nigeria’s defense.