Hosts Rwanda staged a comeback to defeat Benin 2-1 in Kigali, shaking up the dynamics of Group D in the 2025 AFCON qualifying series, which also features Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

Rwanda’s victory brings their points tally to five from four matches, just one point behind second-placed Benin. The Cheetahs, led by former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr, initially took the lead late in the first half. However, Rwanda equalized in the 70th minute and then secured the winning goal just four minutes later through a controversial penalty.

Despite Rwanda’s win, the Super Eagles still sit at the top of the group standings, though they have yet to play their match against Libya. The Nigerian team had a frustrating experience in Libya, where they were detained for 20 hours by authorities and had to return home without playing the game.

Libya remains at the bottom of the group with just one point from three matches.

The qualification race continues next month, with Benin set to host Nigeria in Abidjan before the Super Eagles welcome Rwanda to Uyo for the final match of the group stage.