Amavubi secured a 2-1 victory over the Super Eagles the last time they met at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, during an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match in November 2024.
The three-time African champions seemed on course for a routine win when Frank Onyeka set up Samuel Chukwueze for the opener in the 59th minute.
However, the East Africans had the final say, mounting a comeback with goals from Ange Mutsinzi and Innocent Nshuti to claim victory. Unfortunately, that result was not enough to secure them a place in Morocco 2025.
Although the forward has moved past the disappointment, he says the result serves as a morale booster, with his teammates determined to secure all three points against Eric Chelle’s side.
"(Godswill Akpabio Stadium) is familiar ground for us, and the last time we played here, we defeated a strong team like Nigeria," Mugisha told Flashscore.
"That victory demonstrated that we can compete with Africa’s top teams and provides a morale boost ahead of Saturday’s match.
"While winning here last time is certainly an advantage, we know repeating that feat won’t be easy, but it is very much possible.
"We respect Nigeria as one of the continent’s top teams, given their pedigree and the quality of players they field. However, we have come to play our game and are not intimidated by their reputation.
"Our aim is clear: to play a good match and secure a win. We are not here to lose. If you look at the current standings, we are in a good position, and victory would keep our World Cup qualification hopes alive.
"Defeat is simply not an option, as representing our country on football’s biggest stage remains the ultimate ambition for every player in this squad."
Nigeria clash 'not about revenge'
In the reverse fixture in March 2025 at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, Amavubi lost 2-0 to Nigeria, with Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen scoring both goals in an exciting first half.
When asked if Saturday’s match is a chance to avenge that defeat, which hurt their World Cup hopes, the APR star said the Uyo game is just another match.
"We are not approaching this game from a perspective of revenge, as we don’t want to put unnecessary pressure on ourselves," he continued.
"Although the defeat still hurts, we know that if Nigeria can secure a win in Kigali, we also have what it takes to win in front of their home fans. Ultimately, it is the result that matters to us after 90 minutes.
"Our goal is to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, just like any other African team, and we are fully aware of what is at stake.
"Our coach has repeatedly emphasised the importance of this match, and we cannot afford to miss this opportunity. Playing in the World Cup is a dream for all of us, and achieving it would be life-changing.
"Every player is focused and motivated to give their best on the field. We are prepared to play with determination and discipline, because we know that our efforts on Saturday could take us one step closer to making history for our country."
What Rwanda's coach said
Rwanda enter this game as underdogs, yet coach Adel Amrouche remains confident in his team’s chances at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
"We know why we are here and what we want to achieve. Every team has its own goals, and we came to show our best and give everything on the field," the Algerian told the media.
"Playing against Nigeria, we must respect our opponents, but we must also respect ourselves. We have a country behind us, leaders who support us, and we do not teach our people to be discouraged.
"It’s important to instil a sense of national pride and responsibility in our players. For us, it’s always about moving forward and giving our best."
After this fixture, the Super Eagles will travel to Bloemfontein to face Group C leaders South Africa on Tuesday, while Amavubi head to Johannesburg to take on Zimbabwe on the same day.
