By Olatunbosun Obafemi
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will welcome the Amavubi of Rwanda to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday (today) in what promises to be a decisive clash in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Eric Chelle’s men currently sit fourth in Group D, just one point behind Adel Amrouche’s Rwandan side, who shocked Nigeria with a 2-1 victory in Uyo in November 2024. With both sides still battling for qualification, the visitors will once again look to some of their key players to repeat that historic feat.
One of them is goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, who was outstanding the last time these two teams met. Despite playing second fiddle at Kaizer Chiefs, Ntwari pulled off four crucial saves against Nigeria and could again be a major obstacle to the Super Eagles’ attacking firepower.
Also dangerous is forward Nshuti Innocent, the 26-year-old who scored the decisive winner in Uyo last year. His pace, trickery, and eye for goal make him a constant menace to opposing defences.
Another player who could trouble Nigeria is Jojea Kwizera, the Rhode Island wing-back who came off the bench last year to deliver the assist that sealed Rwanda’s victory. Whether starting or introduced late, his creativity down the flanks is a weapon Amrouche will likely deploy.
In midfield, captain Djihad Bizimana brings grit and leadership. The FC Kryvbas star dominated physical battles the last time both sides clashed and will be tasked with controlling the middle of the park.
Up front, Arthur Gitego may not yet have found the net for Rwanda, but standing at 1.9 metres, the FUS Rabat striker offers a towering aerial presence that could trouble Nigeria’s defenders, especially from set pieces.
With Rwanda riding on confidence and Nigeria desperate to reclaim lost ground, Saturday’s game in Uyo is more than just another qualifier—it is a battle that could define Group D. For the Super Eagles, the memory of November’s upset still lingers. For the Amavubi, it is proof that history can be repeated.
Kick-off is set for 5 p.m. Nigerian time.
