Rwandan defenders Ange Mutsinzi and Thierry Manzi express confidence in their team’s ability to beat Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at Amahoro Stadium. They stress the importance of focusing on defense and the match’s significance for their qualification goals, noting their current joint leadership in Group C.
Amavubi defenders Ange Mutsinzi and Thierry Manzi are optimistic about their chances against Nigeria in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, scheduled for Friday at Amahoro Stadium. Manzi acknowledged the challenge, stating, “It is a tough match against one of the best teams in Africa, and it means a lot. Our objective is to pick up the three points and stay in the campaign.”
Rwanda’s Amavubi currently shares the top spot in Group C with South Africa and Benin, each holding seven points, creating a sense of hope as they prepare for this pivotal encounter. Mutsinzi noted, “I think the game is open, and we will fight to avoid losing. It is tough, but we are ready for the challenge. We must remain confident and ensure that we focus on the game until the end.”
Despite a previous loss to Benin last June, the team rebounded with a key away victory over Lesotho, positioning them favorably ahead of two critical home matches. Mutsinzi emphasized their focus on the present, stating, “We are certainly not concerned about history books and what has happened before. Qualification for the FIFA World Cup is our priority.”
Under Coach Adel Amrouche, Rwanda aims to secure a win against Nigeria to enhance its chances for qualification, given it has never participated in World Cup finals. Mutsinzi mentioned, “We need to defend well if we want to get points. Every game starts with better defending, so we must be ready and give 100 percent because the three points can move us to nine points, which would be very good for us.”
Rwanda is competing in Group C alongside Nigeria, Lesotho, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Benin. The current standings show Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin each with 7 points, Lesotho with 5 points, Nigeria with 3 points, and Zimbabwe with 2 points.
Rwanda’s Amavubi team, bolstered by a recent victory and a strong showing in World Cup qualifiers, is determined to secure a victory against Nigeria. With confidence from their defenders Mutsinzi and Manzi, it’s clear their focus is on solid defense and maximizing the opportunity for qualification. Their current position in the standings underlines the competitive spirit as they aim for a win that could elevate them to nine points.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
