Late Osimhen Goal Draws 1-1 With Benin Rep. And Seals A Spot for Super Eagles in Morocco 2025

The Super Eagles of Nigeria played out a 1-1 draw away against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic on Thursday, November 14, 2024, in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.

The match took place at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan, as the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) did not approve a home stadium in Benin Republic. Nigeria secured their top spot in the group, while Benin Republic’s hopes for qualification now hinge on their final group match.

Lineups

Nigeria: Francis Uzoho, Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Leon Balogun, Jamilu Collins, Wilfred Ndidi, Joe Aribo, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Osimhen.

Benin Republic: Saturnin Allagbe, Emmanuel Imorou, Khaled Adenon, Olivier Verdon, Cedric Hountondji, Stephane Sessegnon, Jodel Dossou, Junior Olaitan, Jordan Adéoti, Mohamed Tijani, Steve Mounie.

How the Match Unfolded

The match began with an electric atmosphere as both teams looked eager to seize control. Benin Republic struck first in the 16th minute when Mohamed Tijani capitalized on a precise through ball from Junior Olaitan, slotting it past Nigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho. Despite Nigeria dominating possession in the first half, they could not break down the well-organized Benin defense.

Coach Augustine Eguavoen made tactical changes at halftime, bringing on Moses Simon, Victor Boniface, and Raphael Onyedika to add fresh energy to the Super Eagles attack.

The breakthrough finally came in the 81st minute when Victor Osimhen, ever the talisman, received a perfectly timed cross from Moses Simon and headed it into the net to equalize. Both teams pushed for a winning goal in the dying moments, but the match ended in a 1-1 draw.

Post-Match Analysis

Nigeria’s draw against Benin Republic showed the Super Eagles’ fighting spirit. Even after going a goal down early in the match, Nigeria’s tactical adjustments and attacking sharpness in the second half ensured they maintained their unbeaten run in the qualifiers.

The Super Eagles controlled possession and created several scoring opportunities, but the Benin Republic defense, led by Khaled Adenon and Olivier Verdon, proved difficult to break down.

What the Coaches Said

Nigeria’s Coach Augustine Eguavoen praised his team’s determination and ability to adapt to changing match dynamics. “I’m proud of the boys for their relentless effort and tactical discipline. We showed great character to come back from a goal down.”

Meanwhile, Benin Republic’s Coach Gernot Rohr said he was satisfied with his team’s performance, saying a draw at least keeps their qualification hopes alive. “The players gave their all, which keeps us in contention for a place in the AFCON. We will focus on our final match against Libya,” Rohr remarked.

Player of the Match

For his crucial equalizing goal and overall impact on the game, Victor Osimhen was voted the Player of the Match

What Next

With this draw, Nigeria has confirmed its status as group winners and will prepare for the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco. The Super Eagles will look to build on their performances in the qualifiers and plan to bring the AFCON trophy home this time.

For the Benin Republic, the focus shifts to their decisive final group match against the Mediterranean Knights of Libya. A victory in that match would secure their spot in the AFCON tournament, making it a must-win encounter for the Cheetahs.

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