Nigeria’s Super Eagles rounded off their Group D AFCON 2025 qualifiers with a 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in Uyo on Monday.

Fortunately, the outcome of the game was inconsequential as the Super Eagles had already secured qualification for next year’s tournament.

The Coach Austine Eguavoen-led side, with 11 points, topped the group, while Benin Republic finished second with eight points.

In this piece, Completesports.com’s JAMES AGBEREBI highlights some positive and negative outcomes from the Super Eagles’ defeat to the Amavubi.

Chukwueze’s Redemption

After facing criticism for unimpressive performances for the Super Eagles, Samuel Chukwueze silenced his doubters with a superb display against Rwanda.

Coming on at the start of the second half, Chukwueze was like a man on a mission, constantly tormenting the opposition’s backline. His efforts paid off when he received a pass in midfield, breezed past three markers, and slotted past the goalkeeper.

Though the Eagles lost, Chukwueze’s performance will delight fans, especially as focus now shifts to the World Cup qualifiers.

Okoye’s Comeback

After two years away from the team, it was refreshing to see Maduka Okoye back in goal for the Super Eagles.

Despite conceding two goals due to poor defending, Okoye looked calm and composed.

While Stanley Nwabali may currently be the team’s reliable first-choice goalkeeper, Okoye’s performance showed he still has much to offer.

Simon’s Crossing Impact

Known for his trickery, pace, and dribbling, Moses Simon has added another impressive facet to his game: delivering delightful crosses.

The Nantes star provided three assists during the qualifiers, with two coming from well-executed crosses. Against Benin, he set up Ademola Lookman’s header and Victor Osimhen’s equaliser.

Against Rwanda, Simon delivered several good balls, including a corner for Victor Boniface, though it was not converted.

This development highlights Simon’s evolution into a more complete winger, benefiting the team.

Osho’s Steady Growth

After debuting in the 1-1 draw against Benin Republic, Gabriel Osho retained his place in the starting line-up against Rwanda.

While not a five-star performance, the Auxerre defender was solid in both games.

The experience will help Osho improve, and credit must be given to the coaching staff for boosting his confidence with back-to-back starts.

Worrisome performance from the Super Eagles

Though qualification was already secured, the Super Eagles’ overall display against Rwanda was uninspiring.

The team delivered one of their poorest performances, raising concerns ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

With the Eagles set to face Rwanda again in Kigali, the Amavubi will take confidence from their one win and one draw against Nigeria.

Midfield lacked everything

Coach Austine Eguavoen’s decision to try a new midfield trio—Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Alhassan Yusuf—backfired.

The three players failed to control the game, prompting substitutions at half-time and later in the match.

While it was an inconsequential game, the performance highlighted the need for more effective midfield options.

Boniface’s Struggles Continue

Victor Boniface remains a divisive figure among fans. Despite his prolific scoring for Bayer Leverkusen, he has struggled to replicate that form for the Super Eagles.

Against Rwanda, Boniface failed to impress and was eventually substituted.

With patience running thin, Boniface must improve quickly to justify his continued inclusion in the squad.

Iheanacho’s Underwhelming Display

Kelechi Iheanacho also disappointed against Rwanda. Starting on the right of the attack, the Sevilla forward produced little of note aside from one shot on target. Unsurprisingly, he was replaced at half-time.

Iheanacho’s lacklustre display further undermines his chances of being trusted in key games when the team is at full strength.