Rebound News

Category: Football

  • Super Subs Deliver: Martinelli & Trossard Fire Arsenal Past Athletic in UCL Opener

    Super Subs Deliver: Martinelli & Trossard Fire Arsenal Past Athletic in UCL Opener

    Arsenal got their Champions League campaign off to a strong start with a 2-0 win away at Athletic Club on September 16, 2025. It was a game that showed both patience and the importance of having match-winners on the bench. (ESPN, Sky Sports)

    What Went Down

    • Tight First Half: Arsenal controlled much of the possession (≈ 62%) and created chances — Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze threatened, Viktor Gyökeres tested the goalkeeper — but couldn’t break through Athletic’s disciplined defense. (ESPN, Theshortfuse)
    • Rice Returns: Declan Rice came back into midfield, offering stability and helping control the pace. His presence seemed to lift the team in the second half. (Sky Sports)
    • Subs Shine: The match changed after Arteta called on his substitutes:
      • Gabriel Martinelli was introduced in the 71st minute for Eze, and within 36 seconds, he scored the opener with a flicked through ball from Trossard. (Reuters, ESPN)
      • Leandro Trossard sealed it late in the 87th minute, assisted by Martinelli, with the goal deflected off the post before going in. (Sky Sports, ESPN)

    Stand-Out Moments & Player Notes

    • Madueke again looked sharp. Even though he didn’t score or assist, his work down the right flank caused Athletic defenders problems — his runs, movement, and willingness to drive forward helped open space.
    • Gyökeres had a less than perfect night — involved early, tested San Mamés’ keeper, but also picked up a head injury and was substituted around the 65-71 minute mark. (Theshortfuse)
    • Defence & Goalkeeper: Arsenal allowed only two shots on target all game. Bilbo’s attacks were largely stifled. David Raya wasn’t overworked but was alert when called on. (Theshortfuse)

    What This Win Said

    • Arteta’s decision-makers look good. Despite absences (Ødegaard, Saka, etc.), Arsenal’s depth is paying off. The subs turned the tide, proving the squad is more equipped this season to handle tight games.
    • Resting Rice recently and using players like Madueke and Eze earlier without collapse shows faith in the rotation plan.
    • Athletic made life hard in phases, showed they aren’t pushovers, but Arsenal had the composure to break through when it mattered.

    Scoreline & Final Thoughts

    Final Score: Athletic Club 0-2 Arsenal

    The goals from Martinelli and Trossard came late, but they felt earned. It wasn’t pretty the whole time, but efficiency, smart substitutions, and game management won it. Arsenal begin the Champions League group phase with momentum; Athletic need to bounce back and be sharper in future fixtures.

  • Newcastle vs Barcelona: Champions League Clash at St. James’ Park

    Newcastle vs Barcelona: Champions League Clash at St. James’ Park

    Date: Thursday, 18 September 2025
    Kick-off: 8:00 PM (BST)
    Venue: St. James’ Park, Newcastle

    Newcastle’s long-awaited return to the Champions League could hardly be bigger. Under the lights at St. James’ Park, the Magpies welcome Spanish giants Barcelona in what promises to be one of the standout ties of the group stage.

    Newcastle’s Form and Focus

    Eddie Howe’s side arrive with a mixed Premier League start — one win, two draws, and a defeat from their opening four. But the resolution of the Alexander Isak transfer saga has steadied the ship, and there are positives: new signing Nick Woltemade scored his first goal at the weekend, while Anthony Gordon’s return from suspension injects pace and directness into the attack.

    St. James’ Park has been a fortress, with Newcastle winning seven of their last nine at home. The pressing intensity and raucous crowd will be vital weapons as Howe’s men aim to unsettle one of Europe’s most famous sides.

    Barcelona’s Early Spark

    Barcelona arrive unbeaten in La Liga (three wins, one draw) and scoring freely, averaging four goals per match domestically. They’ve also averaged five goals per game in their last five Champions League fixtures. Raphinha has started the season on fire with three goals in four, while new signing Marcus Rashford already has an assist to his name after a 6–0 demolition of Valencia.

    But there are cracks: teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal is out, stripping Barca of a key creative spark. Their away record in Europe has also been inconsistent — four wins but three defeats last season, including back-to-back away losses in the Champions League.

    Tactical Battle

    Eddie Howe will surely target Barcelona’s famously high defensive line. The speed of Gordon and Elanga could be lethal on the counter, while Newcastle’s physicality in midfield may test Xavi’s side. At the other end, Newcastle must stay wary of Raphinha’s sharp form and Rashford’s ability to run in behind.

    What to Expect

    This is a clash of styles: Newcastle’s energy and pressing against Barcelona’s possession and flair. The atmosphere at St. James’ Park could tilt the balance, but Barcelona’s firepower means Newcastle cannot afford lapses.

    Prediction: A high-intensity, end-to-end battle — with goals almost guaranteed.d keep Newcastle pinned back, they’ll create chances.

  • Arteta Back in Basque Country as Arsenal Kick Off Champions League Campaign

    Arteta Back in Basque Country as Arsenal Kick Off Champions League Campaign

    Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
    Kick-off: 18:45 CEST
    Venue: San Mamés, Bilbao

    Arsenal return to the Champions League tonight with a tricky opening group fixture away to Athletic Club. For Mikel Arteta’s side, it’s a chance to build on last season’s semi-final run, while the hosts mark their first appearance in Europe’s elite competition since 2014.

    What’s at Stake

    • Arsenal: Looking to start strong after falling to PSG in last season’s semi-final. Arteta has said this team is built to go further, and the squad depth will be tested early.
    • Athletic Club: Back in the Champions League after more than a decade. The Basques want to make San Mamés a fortress and prove they can compete with Europe’s best.

    Team News

    Arsenal

    • Out: Martin Ødegaard (shoulder), Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Ben White, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz.
    • Doubt: William Saliba (fitness test).
    • Back: Declan Rice expected to return after being rested at the weekend.
    • On form: Noni Madueke keeps his place after impressing in the league win over Nottingham Forest.

    Athletic Club

    • Out: Nico Williams (muscle), Prados (knee), Aymeric Laporte (not registered).
    • Ernesto Valverde will lean on the experience of Iñaki Williams and Oihan Sancet to trouble Arsenal’s backline.

    Predicted Arsenal XI

    Formation: 4-3-3

    • GK: David Raya
    • RB: Jurrien Timber
    • CBs: Cristhian Mosquera, Gabriel
    • LB: Ethan Nwaneri / Lewis-Skelly option
    • Midfield: Martín Zubimendi, Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze
    • Forwards: Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyökeres, Gabriel Martinelli

    Tactical Battle

    • Arsenal creativity: With Ødegaard and Saka missing, responsibility shifts to Eberechi Eze and Madueke to create openings.
    • Rice’s return: The England international adds steel and stability, especially vital against Athletic’s pressing game.
    • Bilbao’s plan: Expect physical duels, high pressing, and set-piece pressure. Without Nico Williams, much of their threat will come through Sancet and Iñaki Williams.

    Recent Form

    • Arsenal: Undefeated in their last five across all competitions, scoring freely with Gyökeres and Zubimendi both on the scoresheet last weekend.
    • Athletic Club: Strong start in La Liga but slipped with a home loss to Alavés — defensive frailties they can’t afford tonight.

    Prediction

    Arsenal’s depth will be tested, but the squad has already shown resilience with key men missing. If Madueke continues his form and Rice controls the midfield, the Gunners should edge it.

    Prediction: Athletic Club 0–2 Arsenal

  • Rotation, Depth, and Rest: Why Squad Management Defines Modern Football

    Rotation, Depth, and Rest: Why Squad Management Defines Modern Football

    Fixture lists are getting heavier and managers know it. Players are being asked to play more games than ever, competitions are expanding, and the calendar is twisting into busy blocks that make recovery a luxury. If you want fresh players on the pitch and fewer injuries, rotation is not optional. It is essential.

    The Problem is Real, and Getting Worse

    This season, clubs are already warning about last-minute fixture changes and calendar pressure. The Premier League told clubs and fans to expect short-notice fixture moves because a record nine English teams are in European competition this year. That means games will pile up and squads will be stretched.

    FIFA has also rejigged the international calendar, creating longer double windows in September and October. That adds another layer of travel and less breathing space for players during the season.

    Scientific research backs this up: fixture congestion increases fatigue and injury risk. Clubs who manage minutes during these periods reduce both.

    Managers Know It, and They Are Talking About It

    You hear it in press conferences every week. Pep Guardiola regularly highlights the need to spread minutes and manage energy across the season. Jürgen Klopp has complained about the brutal schedule and how it leaves little room for recovery. Mikel Arteta has been more cautious, admitting he hates resting key players but knows the calendar makes it necessary.

    That’s why Declan Rice being rested recently was so significant. He’s one of those players who usually never leaves the pitch. Yet with stronger options available, Arteta took him out without fear of collapse. At the same time, injuries to Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, and Martin Ødegaard haven’t derailed Arsenal — a clear sign that squad depth and rotation aren’t just buzzwords, they’re survival tools.

    Arsenal as a Case Study in Building Depth

    Arsenal’s summer transfer window offered a clear example of how clubs prepare for rotation. They didn’t just chase one big signing; they spread investment across the squad.

    Arsenal 2025 Summer Signings

    PlayerPositionFrom ClubFee (Approx.)
    Kepa ArrizabalagaGoalkeeperChelsea£5m
    Christian NørgaardMidfielderBrentford£15m
    Viktor GyokeresStrikerSporting CP£69m (add-ons)
    Noni MaduekeWingerChelsea£52m
    Cristhian MosqueraDefenderValencia£13m
    Eberechi EzeAttacking MidfielderCrystal Palace£67.5m (add-ons)
    Martín ZubimendiHolding MidfielderReal Sociedad£60.9m

    This is what smart recruitment for rotation looks like:

    • Options for the same role, so no player has to play 90 minutes every three days.
    • Tactical variety without sacrificing quality.
    • Gradual integration of academy players while protecting stars.

    That’s why when Arsenal rested Rice and lost Saka, Saliba, and Ødegaard temporarily, the system didn’t collapse. New signings slotted in, others stepped up, and the rotation plan continued without panic.

    And Arsenal aren’t the only ones. Manchester City built their dominance by ensuring Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri, or Haaland could miss games without panic. Liverpool’s Klopp has rotated aggressively in cup runs to keep his core fit for the league. Across Europe, the clubs that last until May are the ones that rotate best.

    Rotation is About Clarity, Not Chaos

    Fans hate “wholesale changes” because they look random. But good rotation follows a clear system:

    • Planned minutes around congested blocks.
    • Recruitment for rotation, not just first XI.
    • Youth integration in lower-risk games.
    • Transparent communication so players know when they’re being rested and why.

    When Rice sat out and Arsenal still cruised, or when injuries hit key men and others stepped up, it showed rotation isn’t weakness — it’s strength.

    The Bottom Line

    Fixture congestion is not going away. The calendar is stacked, and clubs will face more sudden changes. The teams who thrive will be those who recruit for depth, rotate with intent, and protect their stars.

    Rice’s rest, Saka and Ødegaard’s absences, and Saliba’s knock didn’t sink Arsenal — they highlighted the value of building a squad designed for rotation. That’s not luck. That’s planning.

    In today’s game, rotation isn’t a gamble. It’s survival.

  • Real Madrid Hold On at Reale Arena After Controversial Red Card

    Real Madrid Hold On at Reale Arena After Controversial Red Card

    Real Sociedad 1, Real Madrid 2 — Reale Arena, San Sebastián, September 13, 2025

    This one should have been quieter. Instead it had everything: a quality finish from Kylian Mbappé, a brilliant Arda Güler strike, a Mikel Oyarzabal penalty, and a red card that stole the headlines. Real Madrid left San Sebastián with a 2–1 win, but they did it down to 10 men for nearly an hour after Dean Huijsen was shown a straight red in the first half. Reuters+1

    How it played out

    • Mbappé opened the scoring early, taking advantage of a moment of confusion at the back and giving Madrid the lead in the 12th minute. Reuters
    • The game turned ugly in the 31st/32nd minute when Dean Huijsen was sent off for a tackle on Mikel Oyarzabal that the referee judged to have denied a clear goalscoring opportunity. Huijsen’s dismissal proved hugely controversial because Éder Militão was close enough to provide cover; Madrid protested and asked for a pitchside review, but the red stood. Reuters+1
    • Just before half time Arda Güler made it 2–0, a smart finish from a move started by Mbappé. Sociedad pulled one back from the spot after halftime when Oyarzabal converted a penalty following a handball. Reuters

    The numbers backed the story

    Sociedad dominated the ball and piled up chances, but Madrid were more clinical: possession 64% to 36%, shots 23 to 16, corners 12 to 4. Madrid had fewer attempts on goal, but they made their moments count and held firm when it mattered most. ESPN.com+1

    The controversy

    This is the angle that won’t go away: many observers said the red was harsh because Huijsen was not truly isolated and a teammate was in position to cover. The refusal to send the referee to the monitor only amplified the outrage. There are already reports that the referees’ technical committee will review the decision, and the VAR official who did not call for a review is likely to face consequences. Real Madrid have signalled they will take the matter up with the authorities. Madrid Universal+1

    What mattered on the pitch

    Kylian Mbappé carried Madrid when it mattered: goal, assist, constant threat. Arda Güler continues to justify the hype with a composed finish and lively play. Thibaut Courtois was important late on with a couple of crucial saves that kept Madrid ahead. For Sociedad, the stats show they created chances, but they lacked the final punch when it counted. Reuters+1

    Bottom line

    Madrid remain perfect in LaLiga after four games, but this felt like a win with a question mark attached. The red card changed the narrative: you remember the sending-off as much as the result. If the refereeing committees agree the decision was wrong, this match will be remembered as another example of poor process deciding headlines rather than the football itself. For now, Madrid take three points; Sociedad take the moral victory of control and chance dominance, and fans keep arguing about fairness.

  • New boys Shine as Arsenal Dominate Forest

    New boys Shine as Arsenal Dominate Forest

    Arsenal eased past Nottingham Forest 3-0 at the Emirates, and this one had everything: goals, character, and proof that the people calling out Noni Madueke didn’t know what they were watching. Martin Zubimendi scored a brace (first of his Arsenal career), Viktor Gyökeres netted again from an Eze assist, and Madueke stole the show despite not getting on the scoresheet.

    Zubimendi Steps Up Big Time

    • Zubi opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a thunderous volley from outside the box that clipped a Forest defender and beat Matz Sels. That was his first goal for Arsenal. Reuters+1
    • He made it 3-0 in the 79th minute with a well-timed header off a Leandro Trossard cross. That brace showed he can score from distance and in the box. Reuters+1

    Gyökeres and Eze Link Up

    • Right at the restart, Arsenal doubled their lead. There was a defensive mistake from Forest, and Eberechi Eze seized it — he provided a precise assist to Gyökeres for the tap-in. That’s Gyökeres’ third of the Premier League season. Reuters+1

    Madueke: The Silent Thunder

    • Even without a goal or assist, Madueke’s performance was loud. He consistently beat his fullback, got into good positions, delivered dangerous crosses, and caused Forest trouble out wide. The Guardian+1
    • His dribbling, commitment to pressing, and movement off the ball showed Arteta and decision-makers were right to trust him—even after fan outbursts when his signing was questioned. The impact was visible. The Short Fuse+1

    Depth & Dominance With Injuries Too

    • Arsenal were missing key players: Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, William Saliba weren’t in the XI. Yet the squad showed its depth. The new signings like Zubimendi, Eze, Mosquera all stepped up. Reuters+1
    • David Raya made his 100th appearance for the club and kept a clean sheet. Forest barely threatened — Arsenal limited them to 0.2 expected goals (xG) from about five shots. The Short Fuse

    Final Word

    Arsenal delivered a statement today: even with injuries, even under pressure, they can still dominate. Zubi’s brace gives them another dimension; Gyökeres keeps delivering; Madueke showed why critics quiet down. If they keep this up, the Gunners are going to be very dangerous.

  • Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid: Los Blancos Aim to Keep Perfect Start

    Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid: Los Blancos Aim to Keep Perfect Start

    Real Sociedad welcome Real Madrid to the Reale Arena today at 3:15 PM BST (10:15 AM local time in San Sebastián) in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of La Liga’s early season.

    Match Preview

    La Real have endured a difficult start, picking up just two points from their opening three matches, and pressure is already building for Imanol Alguacil’s side to find form. In stark contrast, Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid have made a flawless start, winning all three of their opening games. With Barcelona chasing, Madrid will be eager to stretch their lead at the top.

    Predicted Lineups

    Real Sociedad (4-4-2):
    Remiro (GK); Aramburu, Zubeldia, Caleta-Car, Muñoz; Kubo, Méndez, Gorrotxategi, Barrenetxea; Oyarzabal, Oskarsson.

    Real Madrid (4-2-3-1):
    Courtois (GK); Alexander-Arnold, Militão, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Tchouaméni; Mastantuono, Güler, Vinícius Júnior; Mbappé.

    Key Stats & Trends

    • Madrid dominance: Real Madrid are unbeaten in their last six meetings with Sociedad.
    • Home struggles: Sociedad have managed just three wins in their last 10 home games.
    • Away form: Madrid boast six wins from their last 10 away matches.
    • Danger man: Kylian Mbappé is favourite to score first, priced at 3.30.

    Head-to-Head

    • Real Madrid wins: 102
    • Real Sociedad wins: 38
    • Draws: 43

    Madrid’s historical dominance makes them clear favourites, though Sociedad’s passionate home crowd will hope to inspire an upset.

    Injury & Team News

    • Real Sociedad: Yangel Herrera is out injured; Orri Oskarsson remains a major doubt.
    • Real Madrid: Jude Bellingham, Endrick, Ferland Mendy, and Eduardo Camavinga all miss out through injury.

    Prediction

    Madrid have the firepower and form to take control of this fixture. Sociedad’s defence will be tested heavily by Vinícius and Mbappé, while Arda Güler adds creativity in midfield. Unless the hosts can rediscover their spark, it looks set to be another win for Los Blancos.

    Prediction: Real Sociedad 0-2 Real Madrid

  • Arsenal vs Forest: Test for Postecoglou in Return to the Premier League

    Arsenal vs Forest: Test for Postecoglou in Return to the Premier League

    Arsenal host Nottingham Forest at the Emirates this Saturday in Premier League Gameweek 4. The big story isn’t just the result, it’s the manager: Ange Postecoglou is back in the EPL, leading Forest for the first time, and he’ll want to make a mark immediately.

    What We Know So Far

    • Forest have a new boss: Postecoglou replaced Nuno Espirito Santo during the international break. Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta has praised his style, saying Forest already show his “fingerprints” in how they want to play. Reuters+2SI+2
    • Key injury blow for Forest: Ola Aina, Forest’s left-back, is out for at least three months with a hamstring injury picked up on international duty. Talksport
    • Arsenal’s missing men: Bukayo Saka will miss the match due to a hamstring injury; William Saliba also doubtful after his ankle issue. Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus still out. On the plus side, Christian Nørgaard is back in training. Arsenal+3Reuters+3ESPN.com+3

    Match Stats & Trends to Watch

    • Head-to-head: Arsenal have won three of the last five league matches against Forest; Forest won one, and one was a draw. The Gunners have dominated recent home games. Squawka+2SI+2
    • Probabilities & predictions: Arsenal are clear favourites, with bookies giving them around a 66-70% chance to win. Opta Analyst+1
    • Scoring trends: Over 2.5 goals looks likely — recent matches between these sides and overall form suggest both attack and counter are parts of the plan. Forest under Postecoglou may try to press more than under his predecessor. Squawka+2SI+2

    What Postecoglou Brings & What Arsenal Must Do

    • Postecoglou is known for intense pressing, attacking full-backs, and quick transitions. With Saka missing, Arsenal’s disruption will be in their forward areas. Eze or Madueke may get more responsibility to run the flanks. The Standard+2SI+2
    • Forest will need to compensate for Aina’s absence on the left; his replacement will be under pressure, especially defending crosses and managing Arsenal’s quick wide attacks. Talksport+1
    • Arsenal’s defensive depth will be tested too. Saliba being doubtful means Mosquera or others must step up. Keeping a clean sheet will depend on concentration, especially early. The Standard+2Squawka+2

    Prediction

    I think Arsenal will edge this one. They should dominate possession, create more chances, especially from wide areas and set-pieces. But Forest under Ange might surprise with energy and pressing. I’m going Arsenal 2-0 Nottingham Forest.

  • Manchester Derby Preview: Blue vs Red in a Battle of Recovery

    Manchester Derby Preview: Blue vs Red in a Battle of Recovery

    The Premier League’s fiercest rivalry takes center stage this Sunday as Manchester City and Manchester United lock horns in the first Manchester derby of the 2025/26 season at the Etihad.

    Both sides arrive with more questions than answers. Pep Guardiola’s City have endured a shockingly sluggish start, sitting 13th after defeats to Tottenham and Brighton, already looking up at leaders Liverpool. Across town, Ruben Amorim’s United haven’t fared much better — one point higher in ninth, with pressure quickly mounting on the Portuguese coach after an uneven opening stretch.

    City’s Situation

    Despite their league position, City still carry firepower. Erling Haaland is in frightening form after smashing five goals for Norway during the break, and Gianluigi Donnarumma could mark his debut between the posts. Yet Guardiola has problems: Omar Marmoush is out, while John Stones and Rayan Aït-Nouri remain injury doubts.

    United’s Challenge

    United’s season has been a rollercoaster. A narrow defeat to Arsenal, a draw with Fulham, and a humiliating Carabao Cup exit to Grimsby piled on the pressure. Their 3–2 win over Burnley steadied the ship, thanks to Bruno Fernandes’ late penalty, but consistency is still missing. With Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Diogo Dalot sidelined, Amorim’s squad looks thin. Altay Bayındır is set to continue in goal, trusted ahead of new signing Senne Lammens, while Sesko and Mbeumo must step up in attack.

    What’s at Stake

    The Manchester derby never needs extra hype, but this one feels different. For City, it’s a chance to ignite a season that has stalled far too early. For United, it’s an opportunity to pile pressure on Guardiola and prove Amorim can steady the ship.

    One thing is certain: when blue meets red under the lights at the Etihad, the Premier League spotlight won’t just be on bragging rights — it’ll be on survival, revival, and who blinks first.

  • Operation Keep Hope Alive: Nigeria vs Rwanda: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier Preview

    Operation Keep Hope Alive: Nigeria vs Rwanda: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier Preview

    The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to clash with Rwanda in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, September 6, 2025 (5:00 PM WAT).

    Current Group C Standings

    • South Africa – 16 points
    • Benin – 10 points (after a 1–0 win over Zimbabwe on Friday)
    • Rwanda – 8 points
    • Nigeria – 7 points

    Nigeria sit fourth in the group and trail leaders South Africa by nine points, making this a must-win fixture if they are to revive their qualification hopes.

    Team News

    Nigeria:

    • Victor Osimhen is expected to lead the line, with 3 goals already in this qualifying campaign.
    • Ademola Lookman is also set to feature, despite limited game time at Atalanta this season.

    Rwanda:

    • Innocent Nshuti, who netted the winner in their last meeting with Nigeria, is expected to spearhead the attack.

    Predicted Lineups

    Nigeria (4-2-3-1): Nwabali (GK); Aina, Troost-Ekong, Fredrick, Bassey; Ndidi, Iwobi; Chukwueze, Lookman, Dessers; Osimhen

    Rwanda (4-5-1): Ntwari (GK); Niyomugabo, Manzi, Mutsinzi, Ngwabije, Omborenga; Mugisha, Niyigena, Hamon, Bizimana; Kagere

    Head-to-Head Record

    • Total meetings: 8
    • Nigeria wins: 3
    • Rwanda wins: 1
    • Draws: 4
    • Last match: Nigeria 2–0 Rwanda (Kigali, March 21, 2025)

    Prediction

    Nigeria are favorites at home, with history and attacking talent on their side. However, Rwanda have proven stubborn opponents in this group.

    Predicted score: Nigeria 2–0 Rwanda or Nigeria 2–1 Rwanda

    This encounter is pivotal. Nigeria need maximum points to keep their World Cup dream alive, while Rwanda are also fighting to climb further up the table.