2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Eagles ready for Rwanda as NFF pegs ticket prices at N3,000, N1,000
The stage is set for Saturday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announcing affordable ticket prices and declaring war on ticket fraud.
According to the NFF, fans will be able to purchase VIP tickets for N3,000 and popular stand tickets for N1,000 beginning Friday morning at designated centres within Uyo. Director of Marketing and Sponsorship, Alizor Chuks, warned against ticket racketeering, stressing that all tickets will be scanned at entry points.
“The NFF Security Committee has declared total war on all ticket manipulators this time. Fake ticket sellers or holders will be arrested and prosecuted. Spectators must ensure they buy tickets only from accredited vendors,” Chuks stated.
Meanwhile, the Rwandan national team touched down at Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo at 5:28 p.m. on Tuesday, led by the newly-elected president of the Rwandan FA, Fabrice Shema Agoga. The visiting contingent is lodged at Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort and began training on Wednesday at the practice pitch of the stadium.
TROOST-EKONG: “WE’RE READY”
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has affirmed the team’s readiness for the all-important double-header against Rwanda on Saturday and South Africa next Tuesday, both of which could prove pivotal in Nigeria’s quest for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking to NFF TV, the Al-Kholood defender emphasized the importance of teamwork and fan support.
“We’re going to be focused on cooperation because that’s what will give us confidence going into the game. The team is determined to secure a positive result against Rwanda, and keep our World Cup hopes alive,” he said.
Troost-Ekong also made a passionate appeal to fans across the country:
“I want to ask the fans to continue encouraging us, be in the stadium on Saturday, pray for us, and support us. With the fans behind us, we’re confident we can get the job done.”
The Super Eagles captain also singled out young defender Benjamin Fredrick for praise, following his standout performances in the Unity Cup earlier this year. Fredrick, who now plays for Dender E.H. in Belgium, earned admiration from the squad for his humility, discipline, and natural talent.
“Benjamin is a humble, hardworking, very talented defender. We were all really impressed with what he showed us. He’s going to be the future of Nigeria as a defender,” Troost-Ekong said, while also commending Moses Simon for helping the youngster’s rise to prominence.
Crunch Time in Group C
Nigeria currently sits fourth in Group C with seven points, trailing leaders South Africa (13 points), Rwanda, and Benin (eight points each).
Saturday’s match is a must-win for the Super Eagles, who are looking to close the gap and build momentum ahead of the tougher away fixture against South Africa in Bloemfontein next week.
The double-header could very well define Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup, and with training in full swing, all eyes now turn to Uyo for Saturday’s showdown.
