In a rain-soaked evening encounter, Nigeria’s Super Eagles managed a late equalizer to secure a 1-1 draw against Benin in their AFCON 2025 qualifying clash. While Nigeria had already secured qualification for the tournament, a win for Benin would have guaranteed their spot as well, making this match crucial for the hosts.
From the outset, Nigeria looked determined to assert control, pushing forward in attack. The Super Eagles had a promising start, dominating possession and creating early chances, but failed to convert. In the 9th minute, Alex Iwobi was presented with a close opportunity from a Victor Osimhen knockdown, only for Benin’s goalkeeper to keep him at bay.
Nigeria continued to apply pressure and remained in control through the opening stages, but their defense faltered in the 15th minute. Against the run of play, Benin capitalized on poor marking, with defender Mohamed Tijani heading home a well-placed cross past Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, who fumbled the ball at a critical moment. The goal sent Benin’s fans into a frenzy as their team took a surprise lead.
The Super Eagles were visibly shaken by the goal, and Benin took advantage, growing in confidence and keeping Nigeria on the back foot. Despite Nigeria’s efforts to respond, Benin’s defense held strong, denying Ademola Lookman at close range. At halftime, Benin led 1-0, and Nigeria faced mounting pressure to find a way back into the game.
The Super Eagles’ performance remained unconvincing, marked by misplaced passes and a lack of urgency. Raphael Onyedika came close with a powerful shot that narrowly missed the post, but overall, Nigeria struggled to break down Benin’s increasingly defensive setup.
In the 83rd minute, however, Victor Osimhen once again proved why he is one of Nigeria’s most valuable players. Rising to meet a pinpoint cross from Moses Simon, Osimhen headed the ball into the back of the net, leveling the score and giving Nigeria a much-needed equalizer. The late goal provided a sigh of relief for the Super Eagles, who avoided a defeat but failed to meet expectations.
The match ended 1-1, a result that left both teams with mixed emotions. For Nigeria, it was a disappointing performance; their lack of coherence and sharpness in attack left fans wanting more from a team that has already qualified for AFCON 2025. The Super Eagles were not at their best, and despite creating chances, they struggled to find a rhythm and looked vulnerable at the back.
For Benin, the draw was a hard-earned result that keeps their hopes alive for qualification. They now look forward to their next fixtures against Libya with a chance to secure their spot in Morocco.
In the end, while Nigeria avoided defeat, the performance leaves much to be desired. The Super Eagles will need to work on both their cohesion and mental resilience as they prepare for the next game against Rwanda in Uyo on Monday.
