Victor Ikpeba warns the Super Eagles not to underestimate Rwanda ahead of their World Cup 2026 qualifier. Despite Nigeria’s talented lineup and Osimhen’s goal-scoring success in club football, the team is struggling in qualifiers, currently sitting fifth in Group C. Rwanda leads the group, creating a challenging situation for Nigeria as they aim for qualification.
Victor Ikpeba, a Nigerian football legend, cautioned the Super Eagles not to underestimate the Rwandan team in their upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifier at Amahoro Stadium. Ikpeba, who earned the 1997 African Player of the Year award and participated in two World Cups (1994 and 1998), emphasized that Rwanda’s position at the top of Group C is certainly earned and should not be dismissed. He stated, “we can’t underrate Rwanda, it seems difficult.”
The Super Eagles squad, featuring talents like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface, held training sessions in Bugesera’s Ntare Louisenlund School before practicing at Amahoro Stadium ahead of the important match on Friday. Despite Nigeria’s star-studded roster, the Eagles are winless in their World Cup qualifiers, having lost one and drawn three, currently placing them fifth in Group C with just three points.
Osimhen, now playing for Galatasaray with a remarkable 20 goals this season, has had difficulty scoring for Nigeria, failing to net in the last three encounters with Rwanda. He expressed his commitment to improving the team’s chances for World Cup qualification, stating, “You have to give everything; you know it’s a dream for everyone of us to be at the World Cup.” He also highlighted the need to correct previous mistakes, ensuring the team is prepared for the match.
As the qualifiers progress, Rwanda leads Group C with 7 points from four matches, contrasting Nigeria’s struggling performance with only 3 points after four games. The upcoming clash will be crucial for Nigeria’s quest to reverse their qualifying fortunes and overcome the formidable Rwandan side.
The article outlines the warnings issued by Victor Ikpeba regarding the Rwandan team as Nigeria prepares for its World Cup qualifier. It emphasizes Nigeria’s current struggles in the qualifiers and Osimhen’s aspirations to help improve the team’s standings. Rwandas’ unexpected success positions them as a significant threat in the matchup, highlighting the unpredictability of African football.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
