Nigeria Holds Rwanda to a Goalless Draw, Remains Group Leader

Nigeria and Rwanda played out a scoreless draw (0-0) at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Tuesday.

The Super Eagles retain their leadership in the qualifying group, thanks to their earlier 3-0 win over Benin Republic in Uyo on Saturday.

Libya’s Mediterranean Knights, who faced Benin later in Abidjan, would need a three-goal victory to surpass Nigeria.

Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen made only one change from the squad that defeated Benin, bringing Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in for Alex Iwobi.

Defender Bruno Onyemaechi had a chance to score early in the game but missed after a great pass from Ademola Lookman. Wilfred Ndidi’s shot two minutes later went straight to Rwanda’s goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari.

Rwanda’s Bonheur Mugisha and Kevin Muhire created pressure for Nigeria’s defense, but the Super Eagles had the best opportunities to score.

Lookman found the net in the 22nd minute, but the goal was disallowed for a foul in the build-up. Victor Boniface also missed a key chance in the 25th minute, and Onyemaechi failed to capitalize after Boniface’s shot hit the upright.

In the second half, substitute Moses Simon’s shot was blocked by Ntwari, and Jojea Kwizera nearly gave Rwanda the lead with a wild shot in the 68th minute.

Lookman’s volley was again saved by Ntwari, who remained solid throughout the match. Mugisha’s powerful shot late in the game was punched to safety by Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Raphael Onyedika had a chance to score in the 89th minute, but Ntwari saved again. Victor Osimhen’s header in added time was also blocked, leaving both teams scoreless.

Nigeria will next face Libya’s Mediterranean Knights in Uyo in mid-October.