The Amavubi of Rwanda have announced their provisional squad for the pivotal 2026 World Cup qualifier against Nigeria, scheduled for March 21, 2025, at Amahoro Stadium. The squad includes 28 players, featuring 13 foreign-based professionals who largely ply their trade across North Africa.
Leading the charge for this encounter is captain Bizimana Djihad from Al Ahli Tripoli, who holds the midfield position. The squad also features notable additional players such as midfielder Mugisha Bonheur from Stade Tunisien, striker Ishimwe Anicet from Olympique Beja, and defender Manzi Thierry, also from Al Ahli Tripoli. The inclusion of these players marks not just their talent, but also signifies the growing presence of Rwandan players on international stages.
Rwanda’s new coach, Adel Amarouche, is set to debut against the Super Eagles, mirroring coach Eric Chelle of Nigeria. Amarouche emphasized the importance of this match as Rwanda seeks to maintain its grip on Group C of the qualifiers. Currently, Rwanda leads the group with seven points, four points clear of Nigeria.
The squad announced on March 16, 2025, consists of four goalkeepers, eight defenders, nine midfielders, and seven forwards. Among the goalkeepers is Kaizer Chiefs’ Ntwari Fiacre, who was recognized as Man of the Match during Rwanda's previous scoreless draw with Nigeria last year.
Notably, the roster highlights the dominance of Rwandan Premier League champions APR, who have contributed seven players to the squad, reflecting the club’s pivotal role in nurturing local talent. Another club making its mark is Rayon Sports, contributing four players, indicating the competitive nature of the domestic league.
Midfielders Hakim Sahabo and Rafael York, previously suspended by former coach Torsten Spittler for disciplinary reasons, return to the fold under Amarouche’s leadership. Among the newcomers is Djabel Imanishimwe, playing for Naft Al Wassat in Iraq, marking a momentous comeback since his last appearance on February 6, 2022, during the AFCON qualifiers.
This match against Nigeria is expected to be nothing short of tense, as both teams understand the gravity of the upcoming encounter. The pressure is particularly high for Nigeria, as they are tasked with closing the gap on the Rwandan team at the top of Group C.
"The confidence is high among the players, and we know what's at stake. We aim to perform to our best and make our fans proud," stated Amarouche, emphasizing the morale within the squad.
Following the Nigeria match, the Amavubi will face Lesotho on March 25, 2025, continuing their campaign for World Cup qualification. The hope is not just to secure wins but to establish Rwanda as a competitive team on the international stage, building on the momentum gained from their current position in the qualifiers.
With four matches already played, the Amavubi's performance so far has shown promise, rallying supporters behind them. This renewed energy reflects both the players' dedication and the strategic vision of their new coach, indicating significant potential for the upcoming challenges.
Rwanda's footballing narrative is taking shape steadily, as new coach Amarouche builds on the foundations laid by his predecessors. The upcoming matches will reveal whether this new direction will yield positive results or if the established teams will maintain their dominance.
The Amavubi's fortunes rest on their ability to capitalize on their home advantage, and with the loyal fans expected to fill Amahoro Stadium for the showdown on March 21, the atmosphere could serve as the catalyst for victory.
Looking forward, the emphasis will be not just on performance but also on sustaining the motivation and growth of Rwandan football at both national and club levels. The upcoming qualifiers could mark the start of Rwanda’s ascent, as they strive for qualification against formidable opponents.
Only time will tell how this new chapter for Rwandan football will be penned, but the Amavubi are clearly set on making their mark as they square off against Nigeria.