Rwanda vs Nigeria: 'Sack him' - Nigerians calls for Austin Eguavoen's head
Austin was named as the Super Eagles interim coach after the appointment of Bruno Labbadia deal collapse.
Following Nigeria's draw against Rwanda in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, there have been growing calls from Nigerian football fans for the immediate sacking of interim coach Austin Eguavoen.
Super Eagles share spoils with Rwanda
Nigeria found the net in the 22nd minute, but Lookman's goal was disallowed for offside. The match lacked excitement, with the highlight of the first half being a physical confrontation between Samuel Chukwueze and Claude Niyomugabo, leading to yellow cards for both.
Victor Boniface, made an impact in the 36th minute, striking the post with a powerful shot. Lookman failed to capitalise on the rebound, sending a weak header straight to the Rwanda defence.
At halftime, Austine Eguavoen made key substitutions, bringing on Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon, Nigeria created several quality chances, but Osimhen and Lookman were unable to convert.
The toothless Super Eagles were frustrated by a goalless draw against Rwanda, unable to build on their earlier thrilling victory over Benin Republic.
Nigerians demand sacking of Super Eagles Interim Coach after Rwanda draw
The result has sparked widespread criticism and frustration among supporters.
Many Nigerians took to social media to express their disappointment at the team's performance.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) named Bruno Labbadia as coach, but he declined the appointment following Finidi George's resignation, which led to Austin being named interim coach for the two games.
He led the Super Eagles to victory against the Benin Republic.
3 tactical mistakes Eguavoen made as Super Eagles fail to defeat Rwanda in Kigali
Tactical analysis of Nigeria's 0-0 draw against Rwanda in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Kigali.
Despite recording 20 shots and creating three big chances, the Super Eagles could not beat Fiacre Ntwari, who was between the sticks for the Wasps.
While there were some positives to take home, the performance and result shows room for improvement.
Here are three things Augustine Eguavoen did wrong against Rwanda.
Osimhen should have started ahead of Boniface
Eguavoen decided to stick with Victor Boniface as the team's main striker despite his underwhelming display against Benin Republic.
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Boniface had chances, including hitting the post but there is a lingering sense that Osimhen may have buried those opportunities.
Osimhen's introduction at halftime brought a new level of aggression and urgency, showcasing what could have been if he had started.
Subbing off Wilfred Ndidi
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Ndidi was having an excellent game, controlling the midfield with ease. His removal with 20 minutes left, took the sting out of Nigeria's midfield, allowing Rwanda to grow in confidence in the latter stages.
This substitution disrupted the Super Eagles' rhythm and momentum, and while Frank Onyeka is never a bad replacement, he lacked the drive Ndidi provided for the team.
Late Introduction of Taiwo Awoniyi
Awoniyi's introduction in the 90th minute was too little, too late. He should have been brought on earlier, allowing him to play alongside Osimhen and offering a different dimension to Nigeria's attack.
This would have given the Rwandan defense something new to contend with, potentially leading to a winning goal.
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