THE Super Eagles of Nigeria were defeated 2-1 by Rwanda’s Amavubi in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match today in Uyo.
It is the first time ever the three-time continental champions would be beaten by the East African minnows, although the result did not have any bearing on the qualifying group standings.
Nigeria were already guaranteed to finish as group winners before kick-off today, while Rwanda still ended up in third place and could not secure a ticket to the tournament despite the stunning victory.
The Super Eagles felt they were coasting to victory at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium when Samuel Chukwueze struck in the 59th minute after a drab first half.
The AC Milan star picked the ball up from the middle of the pitch and dribbled past three Rwanda markers before placing it beyond the goalkeeper.
Rwanda then turned the game on its head with two goals in three minutes.
Ange Mutsinzi drew the visitors level in the 72nd ninute and Innocent Nshuti netted the winner three minutes later, ending Nigeria’s unbeaten run in the series.
The Super Eagles ended the qualifiers with 11 points from six matches, with Benin Republic second on eight points, just ahead of Rwanda on goal difference. Libya are bottom with five points.
The top two teams from the group earned tickets to the 2025 AFCON, scheduled for Morocco in December next year and January 2026.
