The Super Eagles of Nigeria were held goalless by Rwanda’s Amavubi in Tuesday’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Fresh off a 3-0 win against Benin Republic, Austin Eguavoen’s men found it difficult to break the Rwandans’ defence throughout the match, largely because of the heroics of goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari.
Eguavoen made one change, bringing in Fisayo Dele-Bashiru for Alex Iwobi. Meanwhile, Victor Boniface retained his spot upfront. The latter nearly rewarded his coach’s faith as his effort in the opening half hit the post after a stylish move.
Ademola Lookman’s header from the cross by Ola Aina seemingly gave Nigeria the lead, but it was ruled out by the referee for a foul. Despite relentless pressure, Ntwari was up to a few critical interventions: a last-gasp save from Victor Osimhen’s header being one of them.
Osimhen and Moses Simon came in during the second half to give more bite to the Nigerian attack, while the Rwandan defense, with much determination, kept off the rampaging Super Eagles.
Even with that draw, Nigeria remains top of Group D with four points while Rwanda is second with two. The Super Eagles will now prepare to host Libya in their next qualifier in October.
