Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle remains optimistic about his team’s chances as they prepare to take on Rwanda in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Nigeria faces the Amavubi at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday (today), aiming to turn around their faltering qualification campaign and keep their World Cup dreams alive.

The Super Eagles have managed just three points from four games, leaving them fifth in Group C and under immense pressure to secure a much-needed victory. With expectations mounting, the team is determined to put on a strong performance and rekindle their hopes of making it to the global tournament.

Tough Test for the Super Eagles

The Super Eagles have struggled in recent encounters against Rwanda, playing out a 1-1 draw in Kigali before suffering a 2-1 defeat in Uyo during the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

Now, with a new coach at the helm, Nigeria is desperate to set the record straight and prove that they are still a force to be reckoned with in African football.

Eric Chelle, who replaced Finidi George after Nigeria’s poor start to the qualification campaign, will take charge of his first official match. He acknowledges the high expectations but remains focused on the task ahead, emphasizing the importance of discipline, teamwork, and a winning mentality.

“I think it is tough for the two teams. I said earlier that Rwanda has a great team. They have a new coach, and he’s a good coach,” Chelle stated during a press conference.

The Franco-Malian tactician stressed the importance of maintaining discipline and concentration, particularly in handling Nigeria’s attacking firepower and preventing costly mistakes that could jeopardize their chances.

Chelle’s Game Plan

Chelle emphasized that his players must stay sharp and execute their game plan effectively to overcome Rwanda’s tactical approach.

“I knew that my team must be focused in our game. Like the captain said, we have great forwards. So, we need to be focused on our game and show what we are working on in the training session. After that, there is no problem,” he said.

The coach also warned against complacency, reminding his squad of football’s unpredictable nature and the importance of playing with full commitment from start to finish.

“We have had a lot of meetings and training sessions. I have communicated my plans, and how we intend to achieve success.

We must focus on our game, we have a great squad. We must work hard. What we do with the ball and off the ball will be important. We are focusing on our preparation, and we will be ready.

“I want to win this game because the country needs this.”

A Must-Win Encounter

Sitting at the top of Group C with seven points, Rwanda will be eager to maintain their momentum and edge closer to a historic World Cup qualification. The Amavubi have been impressive in their campaign so far, and they will not be an easy opponent for Nigeria.

Nigeria, on the other hand, must secure a win to keep their qualification hopes alive. Another disappointing result could further dampen their chances of making it to the 2026 World Cup, which would be a massive setback for Nigerian football.

The Super Eagles will be banking on their star players, including Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, and Wilfred Ndidi, to deliver a commanding performance and inspire the team to victory.

The high-stakes encounter kicks off at 5:00 pm Nigerian time at the Amahoro Stadium, where the Super Eagles will look to give their fans something to cheer about and reignite their World Cup campaign with a crucial win.

With so much at stake, all eyes will be on Kigali as Nigeria battles Rwanda in what promises to be a thrilling and decisive clash.