CAF 2026 World Cup qualification group C leaders Rwanda are intensifying their preparations ahead of a crucial fixture against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Footynaija.com reports.
With the game slated for Friday, March 21, at Amahoro Stadium, the Amavubi will be aiming for three vital points as they look to strengthen their grip on the top spot amid stern competition from South Africa and Benin Republic.
As we countdown the days to this destiny-defining fixture, Footynaija.com takes a look at five Rwandan stars that could potentially prove pivotal for the Wasps.
5. Fitina Omborenga
Omborenga has been a constant presence in Rwanda’s impressive qualifying campaign, making the starting XI in all of their four previous matches. Although the new head coach, Adel Amrouche, included him in the 28-man squad, the 28-year-old right-back is currently absent from camp following his father’s passing on Monday. Rwanda will surely be desperate to see the defender return in time for their high-stakes clash with the Super Eagles.
4. Anicet Ishimwe
The 21-year-old Olympique de Beja striker has made just one appearance for the Amavubi in this World Cup qualifying campaign but he holds plenty of potential. Learning off the foot of his more experienced compatriot Innocent Nshuti, Ishimwe has the potential to cause problems for the Super Eagles defence come Friday.
3. Bonheur Mugisha
The Stade Tunisien midfielder has been one of Rwanda’s best players in this past year. Mugisha is currently enjoying a decent campaign in the Tunisian Ligue 1 where he has racked up 21 appearances and scored on four occasions for his club. Heading into the game against Nigeria, he will be tasked with manning the middle of the park alongside the indispensable Djihad Bizimana.
2. Innocent Nshuti
Nshuti has led Rwanda’s attack during this World Cup qualifying campaign and the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign to great effect. The 27-year-old striker has bagged a combined tally of four goals in both qualification campaigns and he will be looking to increase his tally on Friday. Nshuti was on target in Rwanda’s last meeting with Nigeria so the Super Eagles defence will have to be on their toes when both sides clash at the Amahoro Stadium.
1. Djihad Bizimana
The Rwanda national team captain is perhaps their most important player heading into this crucial fixture against Nigeria. Bizimana, who currently plies his trade in the Ukrainian Premier League with Kryvbas, is the Amavubi’s midfield general and he will be charged with wrestling control in the center of the pitch from the Nigerian midfielders. The 28-year-old, who has played every minute for the Wasps in their impressive campaign, will once again be in the thick of the action as they look to inflict a second consecutive defeat on the Super Eagles.