SKIPPER of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, William Troost-Ekong, has fired a warning that they are not in Kigali to drop points despite playing away to Rwanda’s Amavubi.
The Super Eagles take on Group D rivals Rwanda at Amahoro Stadium, Kigali today (Tuesday, 10 September) hoping for nothing but a win to extend their lead in their group in the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Nigeria are winless in their last two meetings in Rwanda, but Troost-Ekong insists that today’s crunch clash is a must-win.
“This is my first time here and it has been good. We cannot afford to drop points in Kigali. Whoever wears the Nigerian jersey tomorrow (today) will deliver,” he told journalists during a pre-match press conference on Monday.
Troost-Ekong’s remarks highlight the critical nature of the match for Nigeria, who are keen to maintain their strong position in the qualifiers. They travelled to Kigali with three points in the bag after thrashing the Benin Republic 3-0 in Uyo on Saturday, 7 September.
With Rwanda aiming to secure a spot in the AFCON for the first time in 20 years, Nigeria is focused on ensuring they meet the challenge head-on and secure the needed result.
Rwanda’s captain, Djihad Bizimana, has expressed confidence in his team, which held Libya to a 1-1 draw in Tripoli on 4 September.
“We are well equipped for the game. The draw with Libya has motivated us greatly. We are focused and ready to see what happens against Nigeria,” he said.
Nigeria reached the final of the AFCON 2023 edition, losing 2-1 at the hands of host Cote d’Ivoire.
The match comes up at 2:00 pm Nigeria time.
Eighteen-Eleven Media