Football
Exclusive: Victor Mbaoma Hails Spittler as Rwanda Chases Historic AFCON Qualification
Nigerian striker Victor Mbaoma praises Rwanda's national coach, Torsten Spittler, for revamping the Amavubi as they push toward historic AFCON qualification. Strong performances and an unbeaten home record put Rwanda close to their first AFCON in 20 years.
Rwabda FA
Nigerian striker Victor Mbaoma has praised German coach Torsten Spittler’s influence on Rwanda’s national football team, the Amavubi, since his appointment in 2023.
Under Spittler’s guidance, the Amavubi have shown remarkable improvement, maintaining strong performances in both the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Strong Start in World Cup Qualifiers
Rwanda has enjoyed an impressive start in the World Cup qualifiers, currently leading Group C despite tough competition from Benin Republic Nigeria and South Africa.
The team has recorded two wins, one draw, and one loss, keeping two clean sheets along the way. This has put them in a strong position to challenge for World Cup qualification.
AFCON Qualifiers
In the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, Rwanda sits third in Group D, trailing Nigeria and Benin Republic. With only one point separating them from second-placed Benin, the Amavubi are still in contention for qualification, with two crucial games remaining.
Spittler’s leadership has also propelled Rwanda to the final qualifying round for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a comeback win against Djibouti, overturning a deficit to win 3-1 on aggregate.
Image Credits: Rwabda FA
“Torsten Spittler has been essential for the team and responsible for these results. He’s done a lot to reshape and improve the Rwandan national team,” says Mbaoma during in an interview with SportsBoom.com.
They’ve won some important games they probably wouldn’t have won before
Victor Mbaoma
Upcoming AFCON Qualifiers Against Libya And Nigeria
The Amavubi will face Libya and Nigeria on November 14 and 18 respectively in a must-win matches for their AFCON. A victory against Libya at the Amahoro Stadium is crucial Rwanda’s qualification dreams before the tough trip to Nigeria.
The team’s strong home record—undefeated in their last five home games, with four wins and one draw against Nigeria—adds to their confidence. “They’re now very hard to beat at home, thanks to how they set up under Spittler,” Mbaoma said who plays for APR in Rwanda top-flight league
He’s made a big difference in a short time, and that home form could be crucial for their AFCON qualifying campaign
Victor Mbaoma
Rwanda Eyes Second-Ever AFCON Appearance
With Nigeria expected to secure the top spot in Group D, the battle for the remaining qualification spot is likely between Rwanda and Benin Republic.
Mbaoma, however, tipped Benin to take the second qualifying slot. “Qualification won’t be easy,” he said. “Nigeria and Benin Republic have stronger chances of advancing, but anything can happen in football. Right now, Nigeria and Benin are in a better position.”
For Amavubi, it will be a dream come true if they are able to make it to the continental showpiece in what would be their first time in 20 years. Rwanda's only AFCON appearance was in 2004 in Tunisia.
Difficult Road Ahead
Despite Rwanda’s strong form, Mbaoma stated that the Amavubi will have it difficult against Nigeria in Uyo and must do everything possible to beat Libya in Kigali.
“Nigeria will be under no pressure, so I’m confident they’ll win,” he noted. “So Rwanda can’t afford to drop points against Libya if they hope to qualify.”
Seyi Alao is a Nigerian sports reporter, writer, and producer, known for delivering engaging sports content in both English and Pidgin. At Brila FM, I transitioned seamlessly into the role of Content Creator, demonstrating a deep understanding of media dynamics and effectively crafting captivating and informative narratives.