Amavubi's 'World Cup Dream' takes a hit after tough loss to Nigeria

Rwanda’s journey toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup has hit a bump in the road following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Nigeria in Uyo a result that could prove costly as the qualifiers head into the final stretch.

The match, played at the Akpabio International Stadium on Match Day 7 of the Group C qualifiers, was a closely contested battle. 

Amavubi went into the game with 8 points and hopes of climbing higher in the group standings.

But a second-half goal from Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare, in the 51st minute, proved to be the difference.

It was a frustrating evening for Rwanda, who held their own throughout the first half and showed promise but couldn’t find the breakthrough. 

The loss marks their second defeat to Nigeria in the campaign, following a 2-0 loss in the reverse fixture in Kigali.

With just three games left to play, Rwanda now sits in fourth place in Group C. 

They trail Nigeria by two points (10), Benin by four (12), and group leaders South Africa by eight points (16).

It’s not over yet, but the road ahead is tough. To keep their World Cup dream alive, Amavubi will need to bring their best to the remaining fixtures and hope a few other results go their way.

The dream is still alive but the margin for error has all but vanished.

Photos

Joseph Morris Vincent