Victor Osimhen delivered a late equalizer to salvage a crucial point for Nigeria in their 1-1 draw against Benin during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification.
The match, held at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny on Thursday night, showcased the resilience of the Super Eagles, who have already secured their place in the AFCON finals.
This result keeps Nigeria four points clear at the top of Group D while Benin remains in contention for qualification with everything to play for in their final match.
The game began with Benin asserting early dominance, particularly in aerial battles. The Cheetahs capitalized on the opponent’s defensive frailties in the 17th minute when Junior Olaitan whipped in a pinpoint cross, allowing Mohamed Tijani to head home at the near post. This early goal gave Benin a deserved lead and put pressure on the already-qualified Super Eagles to respond.
Despite trailing, Nigeria created opportunities to level the score before halftime. In the 42nd minute, Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a perfect cross to Victor Osimhen, who was unmarked in the box. However, in a surprising miss, Osimhen headed wide from close range, leaving Benin with a slim 1-0 advantage at the break.
V I C T O R O S I M H E N @victorosimhen9 23 goals for the Super Eagles, now joint 2nd All Time Top Scorer with the legendary @Mathematical7 . #soarsupereagles pic.twitter.com/tRbsmzy2tm
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) November 14, 2024
Second Half: A Battle of Resilience
The second half kicked off with both teams showing attacking intent. Benin looked to double their lead, and Junior Olaitan almost succeeded in the 62nd minute, but Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made a crucial save.
Nigeria, on the other hand, intensified their search for an equalizer, with Onyemaechi’s shot clipping the post in the 72nd minute.
The turning point came with the introduction of Moses Simon in the second half. His pace and creativity added a much-needed spark to his team’s attack.
In the 81st minute, Simon delivered an exquisite cross that found Osimhen in the box. This time, the Galatasaray striker made no mistake, heading the ball powerfully into the net to secure the equalizer and redeem himself for his earlier miss.
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Osimhen’s Heroics
Victor Osimhen once again proved why he is one of Africa’s most reliable strikers. Despite missing a golden opportunity in the first half, his persistence and composure shone through in the dying stages of the match. His equalizer not only secured a point for Nigeria but also maintained their unbeaten run in the AFCON qualifiers.
Group D Scenarios
With this draw, Nigeria retains their position at the top of Group D with 11 points from five matches. They will conclude their qualifying campaign with a home fixture against Rwanda on November 18, where they’ll aim to finish on a high note.
For Benin, the draw leaves them in second place, but their fate is still in their hands. A win against Libya in their final group match would guarantee their spot in the AFCON finals, setting up an exciting finish to Group D.
Key Performers
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Osimhen’s late goal was a testament to his resilience and skill. Despite a rare miss earlier in the game, he delivered when it mattered most, proving his value to the Super Eagles.
Junior Olaitan (Benin)
Olaitan was the creative force for Benin, providing the assist for Tijani’s goal and consistently troubling Nigeria’s defense. His contributions were vital in keeping Benin competitive throughout the match.
Moses Simon (Nigeria)
Simon’s introduction in the second half changed the dynamics of Nigeria’s attack. His assist for Osimhen’s goal highlighted his ability to deliver in critical moments.
Benin’s Strength in Aerial Play
Benin’s strategy of utilizing crosses paid off early in the match, with Tijani’s header giving them the lead. Their ability to exploit Nigeria’s defensive gaps through set pieces and aerial duels was a key feature of their play.
FT in Abidjan. Benin 1–1 Nigeria| See you in Morocco and thank you all for your support #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/kdm75RfX7X
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) November 14, 2024
Nigeria’s Depth in Attack
Their substitutions, particularly the introduction of Moses Simon, showcased their squad depth. The Super Eagles demonstrated their ability to adapt tactically, a trait that will be crucial in the AFCON finals.
Match Stats
- Goals: Benin 1 (Tijani 17′), Nigeria 1 (Osimhen 81′)
- Shots on Target: Benin 3, Nigeria 5
- Possession: Benin 47%, Nigeria 53%
- Corners: Benin 4, Nigeria 6
