Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has emphasized that the team is fully focused on securing maximum points when they face Rwanda in their matchday five encounter of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The clash is set to take place at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday.
The match is pivotal for Nigeria, who are desperate to revive their World Cup qualifying campaign after a disappointing start. The Eagles currently sit second from bottom in Group C with just three points from a possible 12.
Meanwhile, Rwanda leads the group on goal difference, having accumulated seven points from their first four games. A win would strengthen their position at the top and boost their chances of securing a World Cup berth.
Historically, Nigeria has never won a competitive match on Rwandan soil. However, Troost-Ekong insists that past records will not influence Friday’s game, as the team is determined to change the narrative.
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“Actually, we read about that in some places but we are not bothered,” Troost-Ekong said. “I was part of the last game in Kigali, which ended scoreless, but we know that we cannot afford a draw at this time. Our objective is to pick the three points and bring some life back into our campaign.
“We are certainly not concerned about history books and what has happened before now. Qualification for the FIFA World Cup is our priority.”
The Super Eagles’ struggles in Rwanda date back two decades. Their 2006 World Cup qualifier at the Amahoro Stadium ended 1-1, while a 2011 AFCON qualifier at Stade Regional de Nyamirambo finished goalless. Most recently, in September 2023, another scoreless draw marked their 2025 AFCON qualifier in Kigali.
As the Eagles prepare for this crucial showdown, they are determined to break the jinx and take a significant step toward World Cup qualification.
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