Amavubi head coach Torsten Spittler has heaped praise on midfielder Jean Bosco Ruboneka for his impact in their 2-1 comeback win over Benin in Tuesday’s AFCON 2025 qualifier at the Amahoro Stadium.

The APR deputy skipper replaced Jojea Kwizera in the 46th minute and his performance made an significant impact as Amavubi came from behind to defeat the Cheetahs for the first time in 12 years.

Ruboneka was also part of the reason Rwanda was awarded a match-winning penalty. He controlled Gilbert Mugisha’s cross on his chest before passing Djihad Bizimana who was brought down into the penalty box. The referee pointed to the penalty which the Kryvbas star converted for the winner.

"Ruboneka’s performance is an encouragement for other players on the bench to also excel when called upon,"Spittler told the press in a post-match interview.

"Ruboneka doesn&039;t complain. He can play at any position I put him and he is is versatile. When he came on, he was fighting for every ball, and it inspired other players to also put in more effort."

Spittler further commended the whole team for a good display which rewarded them the first win over Benin since 2012.

"My team played extremely well especially in the second half and I would like to congratulate the players for the job well done," the German gaffer said.

Rwanda have now moved to 5 points in third place while Benin are second with 6 points, a point shy of leaders Nigeria who have a played a game less.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Tuesday announced that The Super Eagles’ match against Libya would not take place on the scheduled date after the former boycotted the match, accusing Libya of mistreatment upon landing in the Northern Africna country.