KIGALI – Nigeria’s national football team head coach, Augustine Eguavoen, expressed confidence in his squad’s momentum ahead of their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Rwanda’s Amavubi.
The match is set to take place on Tuesday at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.
Speaking to reporters, Eguavoen emphasized the positive atmosphere within the team, saying, “We have the right mentality now, and the mood in camp is excellent. Everyone is eager to secure three points in Rwanda and remain at the top of the qualifying table. We are here for business, and I am pleased that everyone is on the same page.”
The Nigerian delegation, consisting of 23 players and team officials, arrived in Kigali on Sunday evening, landing at Kigali International Airport at 5:20 pm local time. They departed Uyo’s Victor Attah International Airport earlier that day.
The delegation was led by Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, along with 1st Vice President Felix Anyansi-Agwu, several NFF executives, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, and a few media representatives.
Eguavoen also praised the timely arrival, noting, “I am happy that we arrived in good time, allowing the players to rest before Monday’s official training session.”
Team captain William Ekong echoed his coach’s sentiments, underscoring the importance of the game. “There is nothing much to say other than that we are here for a purpose. Our target is the three points, and we’ve spoken among ourselves about the need to go all out from the first whistle.”
The Amavubi of Rwanda will pose a challenge, having secured a 1-1 draw against Libya’s Mediterranean Knights in their opening qualifier.
Kickoff for Tuesday’s match is scheduled for 3:00 pm local time (2:00 pm Nigeria time).