CurrentReport Blog The Super Eagles of Nigeria are focused and confident ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Rwanda. Despite the pressure of needing a victory to boost their chances in the ongoing qualification campaign, forward Ademola Lookman has downplayed any sense of anxiety within the squad. Speaking exclusively to OJB Sports, the Atalanta winger emphasized that the team is relaxed, well-prepared, and eager to take on the challenge.
Nigeria is set to face Rwanda’s Amavubi in a must-win encounter at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday, a fixture that could significantly impact the Super Eagles’ progress in Group C of the World Cup qualifiers. The Amavubi, under coach Eric Chelle, are yet to secure a win after four matches, leaving the Nigerian team in a position where victory is non-negotiable.
Ademola Lookman, who has been an integral part of the Super Eagles’ attacking lineup, shared his thoughts on the upcoming fixture, stressing that the team remains calm and focused. “There’s no pressure. I’m just glad to be back with the squad, back with the guys,” Lookman remarked. “We have a big task ahead of us, and we are looking forward to it.”
The 2026 World Cup qualifiers have proven to be a challenging journey for the Super Eagles, but Lookman remains optimistic about their chances. “We’ve had loads of meetings on how the manager wants us to play—our game plan, aspects of how we defend and attack. It’s all positive, and we’re all keying into his ideas,” Lookman explained.
Nigeria’s national football team has a proud history in African football, having won the Africa Cup of Nations three times, and they are determined to extend their record by qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. However, the Super Eagles find themselves in a competitive group, with Rwanda, Ivory Coast, and other strong sides all vying for a spot in the global tournament.
The match against Rwanda presents a perfect opportunity for Nigeria to rebound from a series of challenging fixtures. The Amavubi have struggled in their qualification campaign, failing to secure a win in their opening four games. Despite this, Lookman and the Super Eagles are aware that they cannot take anything for granted. “We know it’s a must-win, and we are taking it seriously,” Lookman said, emphasizing the importance of remaining focused and disciplined.
The Amahoro Stadium in Kigali is expected to be a charged atmosphere, with the home fans eager to see Rwanda secure their first victory in the qualifiers. However, Lookman believes the Super Eagles are well-equipped to handle the pressure, with a strong tactical plan in place. “We’re fully aware of what’s at stake, and we have a clear understanding of what we need to do to get the three points,” he added.
As the Super Eagles prepare for what promises to be an intense match, Nigerian football fans will be hoping to see the team continue their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With Lookman and his teammates ready to give their all on the field, Nigeria remains optimistic that they can achieve their goal and progress through the qualifiers.
The encounter against Rwanda is set to kick off at 4:00 PM local time in Kigali, and all eyes will be on the Super Eagles as they aim for a vital victory to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Key Points:
- Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman downplays pressure ahead of the match against Rwanda.
- The Super Eagles face Rwanda in a must-win 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Amahoro Stadium, Kigali.
- Lookman emphasizes the team’s strong preparation and clear game plan for the encounter.
- Despite Rwanda’s winless campaign so far, Nigeria is taking the match seriously and remains focused on securing a crucial victory.
