Victor Osimhen’s late header salvaged a 1-1 draw for Nigeria’s Tremendous Eagles in opposition to Benin Republic, making certain they are going to end prime of Group D within the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Already assured a spot in subsequent yr’s event in Morocco, the Tremendous Eagles wanted Osimhen’s 81st-minute aim to keep away from a shock defeat in Abidjan after Mohamed Tijani had given the house facet the lead within the first half.
The draw confirmed Nigeria’s first-place end within the group with 11 factors, forward of Benin (7 factors) and Rwanda.
Regardless of having already secured qualification because of Libya’s 1-0 win over Rwanda, Nigeria began strongly in opposition to Benin. Nonetheless, the Tremendous Eagles didn’t capitalize on their possibilities, with Osimhen lacking one of the best alternative of the opening 45 minutes.
Benin Republic made Nigeria pay when Mohamed Tijani opened the scoring, assisted by Victor Olaitan.
However Nigeria’s response got here within the 81st minute when Osimhen made amends for his earlier miss, powerfully heading in a Moses Simon cross to stage the match.
The draw ensured Nigeria’s prime spot within the group with a match to spare, whereas Benin, regardless of a valiant effort, remained second.
