Rwanda men’s senior national team preparations for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Nigeria have been dealt a major setback following the departure of Fitina Omborenga and Yunusu Nshimiyimana from the team’s camp.
The duo left to mourn the passing of their father, casting doubt over their availability for Friday’s showdown at the Stade Amahoro in Kigali.
Omborenga, a key defensive figure for Rwanda, played a vital role in their stunning victory over Nigeria during the AFCON qualifiers. His absence, if confirmed, could significantly weaken coach Adel Amrouche’s side as they look to maintain their strong start in the World Cup qualifying campaign.
Rwanda currently sits ahead of Nigeria in the qualifying group, holding seven points from four matches, while the Super Eagles have struggled, collecting just three points so far.
Rwanda National team in training. ( Photo Credit Getty Images)
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Despite Nigeria’s superior squad on paper, their inconsistency has made them vulnerable, as seen in their previous defeat to Rwanda in the AFCON qualifiers.
New Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will be looking to turn things around and capitalize on Rwanda’s setback, but with a passionate home crowd expected at the Stade Amahoro, the Amavubi will still pose a serious challenge.
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Nigeria will take on the Wasps of Rwanda on Friday, March 21st, at the Stade Amahoro in Kigali, before locking horns with the Warriors of Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, March 25th. Both games are slated for 5:00 PM WAT.
22 of Eric Chelle’s selected 23 players have made it down to Kigali as they begin preparations for their game on Friday. Alhassan Yusuf is the only player yet to report.
