Rwanda beats Benin Republic, pile pressure on Nigeria

In Kigali, Rwanda got revenge over Benin Republic as only two points separate Nigeria from 3rd in AFCON 2025 qualifiers.

The Amavubi of Rwanda recorded a 2-1 victory against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in a matchday four 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.

On Tuesday, October 15, 2024 the Amavubi made a statement in Group D with their first win of the qualification series.

Rwanda 2-1 Benin Republic

Benin Republic defeated the Amavubi of Rwanda 3-0 in a matchday three encounter played on Friday, October 11, 2024, but it was a different result in the return leg.

Gernot Rohr named a strong starting lineup for the match away at the Amahoro Stadium.

Rwanda dominated the opening exchanges but it was Benin Republic that struck first.

Hassane Imourane found Andreas Hountondji in the 42nd minute as they took a lead to the halftime break.

In the second half, Rwanda began to force the issue and would get an equalizer when Imamishnwe found Innocent Nshuti.

Rwanda would eventually go in front when Djihad Bizimana converted a penalty in the 75th minute.

Rwanda would hold on for their first win of the series and move to third in the standing with five points.

They now are behind Benin Republic sitting in second place with six points while the Super Eagles of Nigeria are top with seven points.

The Super Eagles are back in Nigeria after their ordeal in Libya and return to action in the qualification series against Benin Republic in November.