Tactical analysis of Nigeria’s 0-0 draw against Rwanda in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Kigali. Nigeria failed to break down a spirited Rwanda side, settling for a 0-0 draw on a hot afternoon in Kigali. Despite recording 20 shots and creating three big chances, the Super Eagles could not beat Fiacre Ntwari, who was between the sticks for the Wasps.....CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE
While there were some positives to take home, the performance and result shows room for improvement.
Here are three things Augustine Eguavoen did wrong against Rwanda.
Osimhen should have started ahead of Boniface
Eguavoen decided to stick with Victor Boniface as the team’s main striker despite his underwhelming display against Benin Republic.
Boniface had chances, including hitting the post but there is a lingering sense that Osimhen may have buried those opportunities.
Osimhen’s introduction at halftime brought a new level of aggression and urgency, showcasing what could have been if he had started.
Subbing off Wilfred Ndidi
Ndidi was having an excellent game, controlling the midfield with ease. His removal with 20 minutes left, took the sting out of Nigeria’s midfield, allowing Rwanda to grow in confidence in the latter stages.
This substitution disrupted the Super Eagles’ rhythm and momentum, and while Frank Onyeka is never a bad replacement, he lacked the drive Ndidi provided for the team.
Late Introduction of Taiwo Awoniyi
Awoniyi’s introduction in the 90th minute was too little, too late. He should have been brought on earlier, allowing him to play alongside Osimhen and offering a different dimension to Nigeria’s attack.
This would have given the Rwandan defense something new to contend with, potentially leading to a winning goal.
