'We must go to AFCON' - Rwanda coach vows to fight for ticket against Super Eagles

Rwanda's head coach, Torsten Spittler, has issued a defiant challenge ahead of their encounter with Nigeria in the final Group D match of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Sunday, Spittler disclosed the importance of securing victory for Rwanda's qualification hopes.

"It's clear that if we must go to AFCON 2025, we'll have to win here (against the Super Eagles). So, that's our mission here," he declared.

An upset win for the Amavubi would mark a historic moment, which will lead them to only their second-ever appearance in the AFCON finals.

However, Spittler acknowledged the formidable task at hand, recognising the Super Eagles' pedigree.  

"We're expecting an interesting match against Nigeria, and we'll have to fight until the last minute," he added.

While acknowledging Nigeria's qualification advantage, Spittler remained optimistic about his team's chances.

"We don't know how seriously Nigeria will take the match now that they are already through, but I don't think they'll make it easy for us. It will be a very interesting game," he said.

Spittler highlighted the importance of teamwork in containing Nigeria's potent attack.

"We will have to work as a team. Competing against your strikers in a one-on-one situation is nearly impossible. So, we have to organise ourselves and ensure that we always have two or three players against these guys (Eagles players). Otherwise, it will be very difficult," he revealed.

With Rwanda currently leading their 2026 World Cup qualifying group, Spittler's determination to overcome Nigeria extends beyond the AFCON qualification.