Eguavoen expresses disappointment after Super Eagles’ 1-2 loss to Rwanda in AFCON qualifier

Super Eagles Coach Augustine Eguavoen has expressed his disappointment following Nigeria’s 1-2 defeat to Rwanda in the ongoing AFCON 2025 qualifier.

The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, ended with a goalless first half, but Rwanda emerged victorious in the second half, dealing a blow to Nigeria’s qualification hopes.

After the match, Eguavoen admitted the team played below expectations, saying the loss was particularly disappointing as they had planned for a win. “It was a sad day for us to lose to Rwanda here in Uyo,” Eguavoen said.

“We scored, but then, against the run of play, we conceded, and despite making changes, it just didn’t work out.”

Despite the result, Eguavoen remained positive about the team’s potential. “Football is about winning, losing, or drawing,” he said. “We have a strong squad, but it just wasn’t our day. I still believe in this team.”

Samuel Chukwueze had given Nigeria the lead, but Rwanda’s Samuel Marie equalized shortly after.

ALSO READ : NDLEA urges Tinubu to declare State of Emergency on Drug Abuse

The Super Eagles struggled to regain control, and a second goal from Rwanda sealed the defeat.

Rwanda’s coach, Torsten Spittler, praised his team for executing their game plan effectively.

“I’m very proud of my boys for how they played here in Nigeria,” Spittler said. “We defended well and played good football. It’s a happy day for us, even though we have not yet qualified for the AFCON. Getting three points here in Nigeria is a huge achievement.”

Despite the loss, Nigeria remains at the top of the group with 10 points, securing their qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.