Victor Osimhen‘s 81st-minute equalizer secured Nigeria’s top spot in Group D of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, ensuring they finish unbeaten in the group.
Benin had taken the lead in the 16th minute through Mohamed Tijani’s header, capitalizing on a corner kick after Gabriel Osho’s mistake.
Nigeria were down to 10 men at the time following an injury scare to Osimhen from a collision with Benin’s goalkeeper, Soukè Dandjinou.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen started with a 3-4-2-1 formation, giving a debut start to Auxerre defender Osho.
Nigeria dominated possession but struggled to convert chances.
Alex Iwobi had a shot blocked early on, and Osimhen missed a header before the break.
Benin threatened again, with Ola Aina making a crucial tackle to deny a shot, and Junior Olaitan testing Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Nigeria made two substitutions at halftime, bringing on Raphael Onyedika and Moses Simon, but it was Benin who had the next opportunity when Hassane Imourane wasted a clear chance.
Osimhen, however, found the net with a towering header to equalize in the 81st minute, ensuring the Super Eagles‘ unbeaten run in the qualifiers.
This article was updated 3 months ago
