The Rwandese Federation of Association Football, FERWAFA has appointed Algerian tactician Adel Amrouche as head coach of the national team, the Wasps, ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria.
Rwanda, who currently top Group C with seven points from four matches, will host Nigeria at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday, March 21, before facing Lesotho four days later.
Amrouche, 56, replaces German manager Frank Torsten Spittler, whose contract expired in December 2024 and was not renewed.
He will be assisted by Eric Nshimiyimana as his first assistant, while Dr. Carolin Braun takes on the role of second assistant.
An Experienced African Coach
Amrouche brings vast experience to the Rwandan setup, having previously managed Equatorial Guinea, Burundi, Kenya, Libya, Botswana, and Tanzania.
Notably, during his last visit to Nigeria, his Kenya team nearly caused an upset in a 2014 World Cup qualifier, only for Nnamdi Oduamadi to rescue the Super Eagles with a stoppage-time equalizer.
Amrouche’s First Words as Rwanda’s Coach
Speaking after his unveiling, Amrouche emphasized that success would only be possible with the backing of his employers and the full support of Rwandans.
“We should believe we can do something special,” he said, as quoted by The New Times.
“I work a lot; I’m not a coach who talks too much. Everyone has a role to play in the team’s success, including journalists, because you are part of football development.”
“Me alone, I can’t do anything. Everyone must get involved.”
New Era for Both Teams
While Rwanda welcomes a new head coach, Nigeria will also begin a new chapter under Eric Chelle, who will be managing his first game in charge of the Super Eagles.
The three-time African champions are in a difficult position, currently fifth in Group C with just three points from four matches. With six games remaining, both Chelle and Amrouche will be desperate for a winning start in what is shaping up to be a crucial encounter in Kigali.
