Adel Amrouche, the head coach of Rwanda’s national team, has delivered a bold message to South Africa ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday-a statement that resonates strongly with Nigerian supporters, according to Soccernet.ng.
Currently positioned second in Group C with 15 points, South Africa faces a challenging final fixture against Rwanda, a team already out of contention for qualification.
Despite their elimination, the Rwandan squad, known as the Amavubi, is determined to compete fiercely for pride, national honor, and identity-an effort that could significantly influence the destinies of two major football nations.
Leading the group with 17 points, Benin Republic requires only a draw in their home match against Nigeria in Uyo to secure their inaugural World Cup appearance. Meanwhile, Nigeria, sitting third with 14 points, must claim victory and hope South Africa falters against Rwanda to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
Amrouche’s resolute stance has sent waves through the group, particularly among Nigerian fans who are relying on Rwanda to hold South Africa at bay.
“We are disappointed, of course, because we aimed to win that game,” Amrouche reflected on last Friday’s narrow 1-0 loss at home to Benin.
“But football is unpredictable. What truly counts now is how we respond, and I guarantee you, we won’t surrender easily to South Africa. We will contest every ball fiercely.”
Stay Updated with Our Sports Coverage – Subscribe to Our WhatsApp Channel Today!
Amrouche Emphasizes Rwandan Pride
Although Amrouche acknowledged that the defeat to Benin extinguished Rwanda’s hopes of World Cup qualification, he remains confident in his squad’s determination and spirit.
“We are laying the foundation for something enduring,” he stated. “Our players have demonstrated passion, determination, and confidence. Even if the outcomes haven’t favored us, our performances prove we belong on this stage.”
He called on his players to conclude their campaign with zeal and dignity, framing the upcoming match against South Africa as a contest of national pride rather than mere numbers.
“The game isn’t decided until the final whistle blows,” he added. “This is about our dignity, our identity, and the unyielding Rwandan spirit. South Africa will face a team that refuses to back down.”
For Nigeria, the Amavubi’s determined mindset offers a beacon of optimism.
The Super Eagles, who missed out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, are eager to secure their return to football’s biggest stage after a challenging qualification campaign. Their fate now depends not only on their own performance against Benin in Uyo but also on Rwanda’s ability to hold South Africa at bay.
Historically, Nigeria has maintained an unblemished record against Benin Republic’s Cheetahs on home soil, and Eric Chelle’s squad will be determined to uphold that legacy in Tuesday’s encounter in Uyo.
0 Comments