Wilfred Ndidi has sounded a stern warning ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, insisting that the Super Eagles cannot afford another slip-up if they are to keep their dreams of reaching the mundial alive.
The three-time African champions face the Amavubi at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday in a crucial Matchday 7 clash. Nigeria are under pressure after a disappointing home draw against Zimbabwe in their last outing, a result that dented their qualification hopes.
Ndidi, who recently joined Turkish giants Beşiktaş, was forthright in his assessment of the team’s situation. He emphasized that the clash against Rwanda must be treated like a final.
“We are not looking at the game against South Africa yet,” the 28-year-old midfielder told reporters in Uyo. “The game against Rwanda is the most important one in our hands right now, and we can’t let it slip. If we let it slip, it’s finished. If we let the Rwanda game slip, there’s nothing like rivalry in South Africa. We have to win the game against Rwanda first, then focus on South Africa.”
The fixture against Bafana Bafana, scheduled for next Tuesday, is already drawing attention due to the fierce rivalry between both nations. However, Ndidi cautioned that any distraction could prove costly.
“The focus must be on Rwanda. That is our final for now. We all know what is at stake. We can’t afford to disappoint ourselves and our fans again.”
Nigeria’s recent qualifying campaign has been far from convincing. Dropped points against lower-ranked opponents have left the Super Eagles playing catch-up in a group where only the winners are guaranteed an automatic ticket to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Head coach Éric Chelle has been under pressure to find consistency. His squad boasts stars like Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze, but the results have not always reflected the talent available.
Ndidi, one of the team’s senior figures, believes unity and focus will be key. “We know we have the players, but games are not won on paper. We must show it on the pitch, with determination and teamwork. Rwanda will not be easy, but we are ready to give everything.”
The Amavubi have proven stubborn opponents in past meetings, often frustrating Nigeria with disciplined defending and quick counterattacks. They arrive in Uyo with hopes of causing an upset and further damaging Nigeria’s qualification chances.
Chelle, however, is confident his men will rise to the occasion. In training sessions this week, he stressed intensity and sharpness in front of goal—two areas where the Eagles have struggled in recent games.
Alex Iwobi also echoed Ndidi’s sentiments earlier in the week, describing the Rwanda game as “crucial” and calling on fans to rally behind the team. “We know the fans are not happy with recent results, but we need their support now more than ever,” Iwobi said.
Nigeria’s squad has been bolstered by the return of Osimhen, who missed the last match through injury. His presence is expected to lift the attack and provide the cutting edge needed against a compact Rwandan defence.
Kick-off in Uyo is set for 5 pm local time, and the atmosphere is expected to be electric as thousands of fans troop to the stadium, hoping to witness a vital victory.
For Ndidi and his teammates, the mission is clear: nothing short of three points will do.
“We owe it to ourselves, to our families, and to the nation,” Ndidi concluded. “Qualifying for the World Cup is not negotiable. It starts with Rwanda.”
