World Cup (Q): Rwanda coach Amrouche claims hope not lost after Nigeria defeat

Rwanda national team head coach Adel Amrouche has called for supporters to remain behind the Amavubi after Saturday’s narrow defeat to Nigeria from 2026 World Cup qualifying.

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🇳🇬 Nigeria 1-0 Rwanda 🇷🇼pic.twitter.com/UBvoylf8IN

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Amavubi lost to hosts Nigeria 0-1 through a Tolu Arokodare goal at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Reacting to the game, Amrouche stated that he wasn’t happy with the team because they came out to win but called for the supporters to stand by the team.

“With time the team is going to get better. For our supporters to stay behind the team, each person knows what his level is. When we lose I’m not happy… sad after the defeat but my message is to be behind the team and believe for the future for this team.”

The Algerian tactician added that his team is going to be stronger with the experience which they gained from the encounter.

“I know what the level is for my team, we have our objectives. Each game is very important for our team, we played to win. We came with a plan, we studied our opponents. We started with one plan but it happens… sometimes you don’t concede a goal. And that is going to make my players more focused next time.”

The defeat means Rwanda now drops to fourth position below Nigeria who over took them and sit at third place in Group C. They now turn their focus to their Tuesday’s encounter against Zimbabwe in South Africa for their next Group C match.