Ange Mutsinzi and Thierry Manzi believe the Amavubi can achieve victory against Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The team’s current performance places them joint-top in Group C. Despite past challenges, they aim to maintain confidence and strong defense to push towards qualification.
Ange Mutsinzi and Thierry Manzi, centre-backs for the Amavubi national football team, expressed their confidence in securing a victory against Nigeria during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The match, set to take place on Friday at Amahoro Stadium, is significant as Nigeria is one of Africa’s top teams. Manzi emphasized the importance of the match, stating, “Our objective is to pick up the three points and stay in the campaign.”
The Amavubi currently share the top position in Group C with South Africa and Benin, accumulating seven points after four games. Mutsinzi remarked on the open nature of the game, stating, “I think the game is open, and we will fight to avoid losing. It is tough, but we are ready for the challenge.” He highlighted the need for confidence and focus throughout the match.
After a previous loss to Benin, the Amavubi secured a narrow win over Lesotho, positioning themselves favorably for their next two home matches. Mutsinzi noted, “We are certainly not concerned about history books and what has happened before. Qualification for the FIFA World Cup is our priority.”
Under the guidance of Algerian coach Adel Amrouche, Rwanda seeks to overcome Nigeria and advance its ambitions for qualification, particularly noting the necessity of solid defense. Mutsinzi stated, “We need to defend well if we want to get points. Every game starts with better defending, so we must be ready and give 100 percent.”
Rwanda’s current group standings reveal that they sit alongside Nigeria, Lesotho, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Benin, with current points as follows: Rwanda – 7 pts, South Africa – 7 pts, Benin – 7 pts, Lesotho – 5 pts, Nigeria – 3 pts, Zimbabwe – 2 pts.
In summary, the Amavubi’s confidence heading into the World Cup qualifiers reflects their strong performance thus far. With a crucial match against Nigeria ahead, their focus on defense and collaboration under coach Adel Amrouche sets a positive tone for their qualification aspirations. As they aim for a victory to solidify their standings, the team’s resolve encapsulates their ambition for World Cup participation.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
