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World Cup qualifier: Rwanda name killer squad for Nigeria as Amavubi set date to land in Uyo

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Rwanda will arrive in Uyo on Wednesday, September 3, ahead of their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Nigeria, Footynaija.com reports.

That will be two days after the Super Eagles open camp for the crucial World Cup qualifiers.

The match is scheduled for Saturday, September 6, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

Head coach Adel Amrouche has announced a 27-man provisional squad for the fixtures against Nigeria and Zimbabwe.

His selection features three goalkeepers, nine defenders, six midfielders and nine forwards. Among them is Kaizer Chiefs’ Fiacre Ntwari, who boasts valuable experience against Nigeria, including a clean sheet in a 2024 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Rwandan champions APR dominate the squad with five players, a pointer to the club’s influence on the national setup.

Rwanda and Nigeria have shared mixed fortunes in recent meetings. The Amavubi shocked the Super Eagles with a 2-1 win in Uyo during an AFCON qualifier in 2025, but Nigeria responded with a 2-0 victory in Kigali last March.

The Super Eagles currently sit fourth in Group C, one point behind Rwanda, who are level on eight points with Benin and five adrift of leaders South Africa. A win in Uyo is vital for Nigeria’s campaign as they look to strengthen their push for a place at the 2026 World Cup.

After their meeting in Uyo, Rwanda will travel to Johannesburg to face Zimbabwe at Orlando Stadium on September 9.

Rwanda’s position in Group C means Saturday’s encounter could shape the direction of their qualification hopes.

FULL LIST: Rwanda’s provisional squad for World Cup qualifiers

Goalkeepers: Fiacre Ntwali (Kaizer Chiefs), Clement Buhake (Ull/Kisa) and Pierre Ishimwe (APR)

Defenders: Alex Nduwayo (APR), Claude Niyomugabo (APR), Fitina Ombalenga (APR), Emmanuel Nshimiyimana (Rayon Sports), Ange Mutsinzi (Zira Futubul Clubu), Darrly Nganji Nkurikiyimana (Standard de Liege), Thierry Manzi (Al Ahly Tripoli) and Phanuel Kavita Mabaya (Birmingham).

Midfielders: Djihadi Bizimana (Al Ahly Tripoli), Bonheur Mugisha (AL Masry), Bryan Clovis Ngwabije (Dieppe FC), Claude Smith Kayitaba (Bedford Town), Kevin Muhire (Jamus), and Christian Mukudju (Elite Football Club)

Forwards: Gilbert Mugisha (APR), Aly Enzo Hamon (Angouleme CFC), Anicet Ishimwe (Olympique Beja), Arthur Gitego (FUS Rabat), Jojea Kwizera (Rhode Island), Innocent Nshuti ( ES Zarzis), Abeddy Biramahire (ES Setif), Djabilu Ishimwe (Etincelles) and David Niyo (SC Kiyovu)