In a gripping AFCON 2023 kickoff clash in Ivory Coast, the Super Eagles battled to a 1-1 draw against the formidable Elephants of Equatorial Guinea on Sunday.
Nigeria, led by the confident Victor Osimhen, faced adversity with injuries to key players but kicked off energetically.
Osimhen’s early attempt, thwarted by Equatorial Guinea’s keeper, set the tone for a spirited contest.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, chosen over Francis Uzoho, aimed to silence critics but couldn’t prevent Iban Salvador’s 37th-minute strike that caught the Super Eagles off guard.
Undeterred, the Nigerian side swiftly responded as Alex Iwobi connected with Osimhen to level the score before halftime. Moses Simon’s near-post effort and Equatorial Guinea’s goalkeeper Owono’s resilience maintained the deadlock.
The second half saw missed opportunities for both teams, with Osimhen squandering a golden chance in the 76th minute.
Despite Alhassan Yusuf’s unfortunate exit on a stretcher, Joe Aribo and Samuel Chukwueze were brought in to fortify the Nigerian attack.
In the end, the Elephants’ resolute defense secured a crucial draw against the 2013 champions, leaving the Super Eagles to regroup and strategize for the challenges ahead in the AFCON tournament.
Ada Peter
