Nigeria will host Rwanda on Saturday evening in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, as the Super Eagles fight to keep their fading hopes alive.
The stakes are high following Friday’s Group C results, which saw South Africa strengthen their grip on top spot. Goals from Mohau Nkota, Lyle Foster, and Oswin Appollis secured a vital win for Bafana Bafana, who now sit comfortably with 16 points after seven matches — five clear of second-placed Benin Republic (11 points). Rwanda currently have eight points, while Nigeria languish in fourth place with just seven.
For the Super Eagles, the game against the Amavubis is make-or-break. Coach Eric Chelle is expected to pair captain William Troost-Ekong with Calvin Bassey in central defence, while Ademola Lookman could be handed a starting role in attack despite limited game time this season.
Nigeria will, however, be without key forwards Victor Boniface, Umar Sadiq, and Taiwo Awoniyi, increasing the pressure on Napoli striker Victor Osimhen to deliver.
Nigeria’s possible XI: Nwabali; Aina, Troost-Ekong, Osayi-Samuel, Bassey; Ndidi, Iwobi; Chukwueze, Simon, Lookman; Osimhen.
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