November 14, 2024
Nigeria played a 1-1 draw against neighbours, Benin Republic, as they top the Group D of 2025 AFCON qualifier.
A late goal from Victor Osimhen sealed the spot for Nigeria, who only needed a point to stay top of the group.
The Super Eagles conceded an early goal in the 16th minute. Following a quick corner kick, an unmarked Benin defender, Mohamed Tijani headed through Stanley Nwabali’s legs to open the scoring.
The Eagles dominated the game but weren’t not able to get the equaliser in the first half.
Junior Olaitan almost doubled the lead for Benin as he tested Nwabali, and Ola Aina had to put in an excellent tackle to deny another shot at the Nigerian goal.
Osimhen missed a clear chance to draw level as he headed wide from a cross from Bruno Onyemaechi.
Nigeria gaffer, Augustine Eguavoen made two changes at the start of the second half. He brought on Raphael Onyedika and Moses Simon for Gabriel Osho and Kelechi Iheanacho.
In the 81st minute after dominating the game, Osimhen rose above two Benin defenders to head home the equaliser from Simon’s cross.
The draw ensured Nigeria preserved their unbeaten run in AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
Nigeria will finish top of Group D and be assured of being seeded in the AFCON draws. They host Rwanda in the last game of the qualifiers on Monday.
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