Nigeria have clinched a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Benin Republic in their qualifying match on Thursday.
Despite an early lead by the home side, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen’s late goal ensured Nigeria’s qualification for the tournament in Morocco.
Benin Republic took the lead in the 16th minute, with midfielder M. Tijani scoring from a well-executed play that gave the hosts an early advantage.
Tijani’s goal sent the home fans into a frenzy as Benin looked to keep their AFCON hopes alive.
The Super Eagles struggled to find their rhythm for much of the first half, with Benin’s defence proving resilient.
However, Nigeria mounted pressure in the second half, determined to secure at least a point to confirm their place in the AFCON.
The breakthrough came in the 81st minute when Osimhen, the Nigerian star forward, found the back of the net with a clinical header, levelling the scoreline and shifting momentum.
Osimhen’s goal sparked celebrations among Nigerian fans, as it ensured Nigeria’s qualification for AFCON regardless of the match’s outcome.
The draw leaves Nigeria with an unassailable lead in their qualifying group, solidifying their spot in the upcoming tournament.
The Super Eagles will now look ahead to AFCON 2025, where they hope to contend for the continental title.
However, the Super Eagles will proceed to play Libya next in their last qualification match despite their qualification; this is as the Nigerian fans are hopeful that the Super Eagles will be more forthcoming with goals, unlike the match with Benin in which they struggled with goals.
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