NIGERIA’S Super Eagles yesterday secured TotalEnergies CAF AFCON spot with a draw against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic. Eagles qualify with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against their West African neighbours.
With the results, Nigeria have officially qualified for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, securing a top-two finish in Group D.
In the match played in Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium, Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Benin opened the scoring in the 16th minute when Mohamed Tijani capitalized on a corner delivery from Junior Olaïtan, heading the ball into the centre of the net.
The Super Eagles found themselves trailing despite creating opportunities, with Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon both testing Benin’s defence.
In the second half, Nigeria intensified their attack and were rewarded in the 81st minute when Osimhen met Simon’s cross with a precise header to level the score.
Benin fought hard to reclaim the lead, but Nigeria’s defence held firm, preserving the draw.
Nigeria’s qualification for TotalEnergies CAF AFCON marks a relief for fans and sets the stage for their preparations for the tournament.
Benin, meanwhile, remains in contention but will need positive results in their final game to have any chance of progressing.
Eighteen-Eleven Media