Spittler Announces Exit As Rwanda Coach After Draw With Nigeria

The Head Coach of the Amavubi (The Wasps) of Rwanda, Torsten Frânk Spittler, stunned the nation when he announced his intention to quit during the post-match press conference following his team’s goalless draw with Nigeria’s Super Eagles on Tuesday in an AFCON 2025 qualifying match at Amahoro Stadium, Kigali, revealing that he plans to step down in the next two months.

Both the proud Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) and the fans expected Spittler to be enthusiastic about renewing his contract in November after leading the Amavubi through an impressive 10-month and 10-day run so far. However, the German coach has made it clear he does not intend to extend his contract.

Spittler, 62, was appointed by FERWAFA on November 1, 2023. Under his leadership, Rwanda currently tops the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifying Group C table, with South Africa, Benin Republic, Lesotho, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe trailing in that order. He has also guided Rwanda to third place in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers Group D, behind Nigeria and Benin Republic, but ahead of Libya.

Also Read – 2025 AFCONQ: Olaitan’s Strike Earns Benin Republic 2-1 Comeback Win Against Libya

According to Kigali Today, Spittler confirmed that he will retire from coaching when his one-year contract as Amavubi Head Coach expires in two months.

“When I arrived here, they asked me how long I wanted to stay, and I said I wanted to stay for one year because, after that, I will retire from coaching. My boots are wearing out,” Spittler remarked.

His statement surprised reporters, and when asked again if he would indeed retire, the former Technical Director of Yemen, Sierra Leone, and Mozambique confirmed his decision.

Spittler has overseen eight matches with the Amavubi, including six competitive games and two friendlies, recording three wins, four draws, and one loss.

By Nnamdi Ezekute