Super Eagles’ Resilience Shines in 1-1 Draw, Clinching Ticket to Morocco 2025
Victor Osimhen came to Nigeria’s rescue last night, scoring a late equalizer to secure a 1-1 draw with Benin Republic, sealing the Super Eagles’ spot at the upcoming AFCON 2025 in Morocco. Nigeria entered the match in Abidjan already assured of qualification, thanks to Libya’s 1-0 win over Rwanda earlier in the day.
Benin, needing a win to stay in contention for qualification, took a surprising lead in the 16th minute when defender Mohamed Tijani scored his first international goal, slipping a header past Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. The early setback appeared to ignite the Super Eagles, who pushed forward with their attacking trio of Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Kelechi Iheanacho. Despite dominating possession, Nigeria struggled to convert their chances on a rain-soaked pitch at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny.
As the clock ticked down, interim coach Augustine Eguavoen made key substitutions, bringing on Moses Simon and Raphael Onyedika. The tactical shift paid off in the 81st minute when Simon delivered a precise cross that Osimhen headed into the net, equalizing the score and ensuring Nigeria remained unbeaten in the qualifiers.
Osimhen’s goal secured Nigeria’s place as group winners, giving them a cushion ahead of their final qualifying match against Rwanda in Uyo on Monday. Rwanda, who sit third in the group after their loss to Libya, must win against Nigeria and hope for a favorable result in Benin’s game against Libya to secure the group’s second qualification spot.
After the match, Coach Eguavoen praised his team’s fighting spirit. “It was a tough game, but the players showed resilience, especially in the second half. The rain made things difficult, but I’m proud we have our AFCON ticket secured before the final game against Rwanda in Uyo,” Eguavoen stated.
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