Rwanda stun Nigeria with 2-1 comeback victory in final AFCON qualifier

Kigali, Rwanda

March 29, 2023

Amavubi secure historic qualification for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations

Rwanda produced a stunning comeback to defeat Nigeria 2-1 in their final Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group A qualifier on Tuesday. The Amavubi, who needed a win to secure their place in the tournament in Ivory Coast next year, fell behind to a first-half goal from Moses Simon. However, the hosts rallied after the break and goals from Olivier Niyonzima and Djihad Bizimana sealed a famous victory. Rwanda started the match brightly and had a couple of early chances to take the lead. However, it was Nigeria who took the lead against the run of play in the 28th minute. A long ball from goalkeeper Francis Uzoho found Simon, who controlled the ball well and fired past Rwanda goalkeeper Olivier Kwizera. The goal seemed to knock the stuffing out of Rwanda, and Nigeria had a number of chances to extend their lead before half-time. However, Kwizera made a number of good saves to keep his side in the game. Rwanda came out with more purpose in the second half and started to create more chances. They were finally rewarded for their efforts in the 56th minute when Niyonzima headed home a cross from Ernest Sugira. The goal gave Rwanda a huge boost, and they continued to press for a winner. They were finally rewarded in the 80th minute when Bizimana fired home from close range after a scramble in the Nigeria penalty area. The win means that Rwanda have qualified for the AFCON for the first time since 2019. They will be making their third appearance at the tournament, having previously participated in 2004 and 2019. Nigeria, meanwhile, will be disappointed to have missed out on qualification for the AFCON. The Super Eagles have been one of the most successful teams in the tournament's history, having won it three times. However, they have now failed to qualify for two of the last three editions. The victory will be a huge boost to Rwanda's confidence, and they will now be hoping to make an impact at the AFCON finals next year. Nigeria, meanwhile, will need to regroup and focus on qualifying for the 2025 AFCON.