The former Rwanda star has revealed a game plan to neutralise Super Eagles in World Cup qualifiers.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 World Cup qualifier between Rwanda and Nigeria, former Rwandan international Francis Sibomana has unveiled his nation’s strategy to thwart the Super Eagles’ ambitions.
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Nigeria needed a victory to revitalise their qualification hopes, and Rwanda aiming to solidify their lead in Group C, the stakes are high for the match at Kigali’s Amahoro Stadium on March 21st.
What Sibomana said
Sibomana, aware of Nigeria’s potential for early goals, emphasised the importance of a strong defensive foundation.
“Our biggest strength in the qualifiers so far has been our defensive setup. Against Nigeria, we must maintain our defensive organisation and prevent them from having any opportunity at goal, as that could put us in trouble,” Sibomana told Flashscore.
Sibomana emphasised Rwanda’s home advantage and their recent success against Nigeria.
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He also expressed confidence in Rwanda’s counter-attacking capabilities.
He continued, “If they come to attack, I’m fine with that because we have fast, talented players who can capitalise on a team that is pushing forward.
“We are playing at home, and we know what it takes. We are experienced at this stage and will do everything possible to win this game. Rwanda haven’t lost to them in our last encounters, which proves that this Nigerian side is very beatable, just like we showed the last time we faced them on their home soil.”
Recalling their 2-1 victory over Nigeria in Uyo, Sibomana dismissed the notion of it being a fluke.
“Many of your people (Nigerians) still believe the win in Nigeria was a fluke, but trust me, we will aim to repeat that when we face them again next week in Kigali,” he said.
He also addressed Nigeria’s star-studded squad, stating, “Also, they have announced a star-studded squad, but that doesn’t scare us, as we have our own superstars who will let their performance on the field do the talking.”
Nigeria will battle Rwanda on March 21 in Kigali before hosting Zimbabwe in Uyo.