'We gave them a present' - Rwanda coach slams Wasps players after defeat to Super Eagles

Rwanda head coach, Adel Amrouche has criticized his players following their 2-0 defeat to Nigeria in a 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier at the Amahoro Stadium on Friday evening.  

The victory marked Nigeria’s first win in the qualifying campaign, bringing their points tally to six from five matches.

The Super Eagles had previously struggled against the Wasps in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, drawing 1-1 in Kigali and suffering a 2-1 defeat in Uyo.  

Speaking after the match, Amrouche expressed frustration over his team's defensive lapses, particularly the early goal conceded in the 11th minute.  

"I congratulate the opponent (Nigeria) but I think we gave them present," Amrouche told reporters at the post-match press conference. 

"It was not the scenario that I was working when they scored and we conceded the goal after ten minutes, it is not the plan."

Nigeria took the lead when Victor Osimhen capitalized on Ademola Lookman’s cross, slotting home in the 11th minute.

The Galatasaray striker then doubled the advantage with a well-placed lob over the goalkeeper before halftime.  

Amrouche further emphasized the need for a change in his players’ mentality and approach to games.  

"I don't want to talk about the opponent. I will talk about my team. They tried but there are somethings we must correct in the team between me and the players," he said.

"We must change some habit and I am sure with time. We don't have a lot of time to correct some habit. I am not saying my players cannot fight. I don't see Nigeria like before.

"In general, we gave a present to the opponent. I had lots of games with Nigeria, the body is there but it is not easy but this is football we accept it and life continue."  

Despite the win, Nigeria still faces a tough road ahead in their qualification bid and will need positive results against Zimbabwe and other group rivals to stay in contention for a World Cup spot.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: ferwafa.rw

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com