Belgian-born Rwanda midfielder credits Liverpool icon for form boost ahead of Nigeria clash

Belgian-born Rwanda youngster Hakim Sahabo praised Liverpool legend Dirk Kuyt for his fine form in the Jupiler Pro League ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers encounter against Nigeria.

Currently fifth in Group C with three points, Nigeria must secure a victory to rejuvenate her hope of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Sahabo, who joined Beerschot on loan from fellow Belgian club Standard Liege in the January transfer window, rediscovered his fine form after earlier struggle with injuries and form.

He has featured in nine league games and provided one assist in 648 minutes since the start of 2025.

The form earned him an invitation to the national team camp ahead of the encounter against Nigeria and Lesotho later this month.

In an interview with the club's media and reported by New Times, Sahabo heaped praises on Liverpool great Dirk Kuyt, Beerschot's coach for his new form.

"I am extremely grateful to the coach for the confidence he has in me," he said.

"At Beerschot, I have been able to rediscover the joy of football and I noticed I am improving every match.

"The entire coaching staff help me to give the best of myself and that involvement and appreciation means a lot to me. I feel good in Beerschot."

With four points separating both nations, Sahabo's new form would be crucial as Rwanda hope to continue their impressive form against Nigeria.

The Wasps are unbeaten against the Super Eagles in the last two games during the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, even earning a 2-1 victory in Uyo.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo credit: ferwafa.rw

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