Victor Ikpeba warns the Super Eagles not to underestimate Rwanda before their World Cup 2026 qualifier. He emphasizes that star players do not guarantee wins in African football. The Super Eagles, currently last in Group C, aim to boost their qualifications hopes, especially with Osimhen seeking to break his goal drought against Rwanda.
Victor Ikpeba, a legendary figure in Nigerian football, has cautioned the Super Eagles against underestimating their opponents, Rwanda, ahead of the crucial World Cup 2026 qualifier scheduled for Friday at Amahoro Stadium. Ikpeba, the 1997 African Player of the Year and a participant in two World Cup tournaments with Nigeria, emphasized that having a roster of prominent players does not guarantee victory in Kigali, noting Rwanda’s position at the top of Group C is well-deserved.
Ikpeba stated, “I think to have a team that is on top of the log and defeated us last year, it seems difficult. We can’t underrate Rwanda. Yes, when you look at the 23-man list, it’s frightening because of the quality of talents we have there but we are still in African football. Names don’t win matches in African football games, you have to go there and fight.”
The Super Eagles, including notable players Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface, recently conducted training sessions first at Ntare Louisenlund School in Bugesera before moving to Amahoro Stadium. Currently, Nigeria has struggled in the qualifiers, remaining winless after four games with one loss and three draws, placing them fifth in Group C.
Osimhen, who has been prolific at Galatasaray this season with 20 goals, expressed determination to improve his performance for the national team. He has yet to score against Rwanda in their last three encounters, but he is eager to end this streak and positively impact Nigeria’s qualification hopes. “You have to give everything; you know it’s a dream for everyone of us to be at the World Cup. Mine is no exception. So for me, I want to be there just like every one of my teammates and we are really looking forward to the game against Rwanda,” said the 26-year-old.
As of now, Rwanda leads Group C with 7 points after four matches, while Nigeria languishes with only 3 points.
In summary, Nigeria’s legendary player Victor Ikpeba stresses the importance of respecting their opponent, Rwanda, ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifier. Despite the Super Eagles’ roster boasting impressive talents, Ikpeba acknowledges that past performances matter more in the context of African football. As the team prepares for the match, Osimhen’s commitment to improving his scoring record against Rwanda will be crucial for Nigeria’s aspirations to progress in the qualifiers.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
