A late equalizer from Victor Osimhen salvaged a draw for the Super Eagles, concluding the match at 1-1 against Benin Republic during the fifth round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Under the management of former Super Eagles Manager Gernot Rohr, the Cheetahs took an early lead in the 16th minute, courtesy of a well-placed header from Muhammed Tijani at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan on Thursday night.
Prior to the match, Libya secured an unexpected 1-0 victory over Rwanda, raising their points total to four and ensuring the Super Eagles’ qualification for AFCON.
The outcome in Kigali energized Benin Republic, who were aware that a win was essential. This set the stage for an intense 90 minutes in Abidjan.
Alex Iwobi had a chance to give the Super Eagles an early advantage just nine minutes in, receiving a knockdown from Victor Osimhen inside the six-yard box, but he was unable to convert.
Benin Republic took the lead in the 16th minute when Tijani directed a header through the legs of Chief Stanley Nwabali, following a precise cross from Ishola Olaitan.
The Super Eagles nearly equalized when Ademola Lookman connected with a pass from Kelechi Iheanacho, but his effort was thwarted by goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou.
Tijani came close to doubling Benin’s lead shortly after, but his attempt was blocked by the outstretched legs of debutant Gabriel Osho.
In the 41st minute, Osimhen squandered a significant opportunity, heading a cross wide of the target with Dandjinou completely beaten.
Super Eagles caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen made strategic substitutions, bringing on Raphael Onyedika and Moses Simon early in the second stanza.
In the 55th minute, Ademola Lookman and Osimhen caused anxious moments at the Benin Republic rear.
36 Lion product Olaitan also got close after Captain William Ekong and Olaoluwa Aina fumbled with the ball down the line.
Bruno Onyemaechi, coming forward a lot, saw his shot roll agonizingly away from goal just after the hour, and Osimhen headed wide away in the 74th minute as the Cheetahs began to nurse hopes of a win.
Nigeria continued to apply pressure on the Cheetahs and finally found the equalizer in the 81st minute.
Moses Simon delivered a well-placed cross to Osimhen, who responded with a superb header.
As a result of this match, the Super Eagles are assured of finishing at the top of their group, regardless of the outcome of the sixth round of qualifiers.
Benin Republic currently holds second place with seven points (+0), while Rwanda has five (-3) and Libya four points (-4).
