Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a 1-1 draw against Benin Republic in Thursday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, confirming their status as Group D leaders. Though the Super Eagles had already clinched a spot in the upcoming tournament in Morocco, Benin’s early advantage made for a tense showdown.

The Cheetahs struck first, with Mohamed Tijani’s goal in the 16th minute giving Benin Republic the lead. Playing defensively, the hosts stifled Nigeria’s attempts to break through, leaving the Super Eagles visibly out of sync and struggling to impose their rhythm. Benin held their lead through halftime, setting the stage for a hard-fought second half.

Interim coach Austine Eguavoen introduced fresh legs, including Simon Moses and Victor Boniface, aiming to energize Nigeria’s attack. The pressure mounted as Nigeria repeatedly pushed forward, but Benin’s defense held firm. Just when it seemed the Cheetahs might walk away with a win, Moses delivered a pinpoint cross in the 81st minute, and Victor Osimhen rose above the defense to nod it in, leveling the score.

The equalizer marked Osimhen’s 23rd goal for Nigeria, tying him with Segun Odegbami as the Super Eagles’ joint-second all-time top scorer. This pivotal strike ensures that Nigeria finishes the qualifiers with 11 points, leaving Benin Republic in second with seven points, followed by Rwanda at five points and Libya at the bottom with four.

With one game remaining, the Super Eagles will host Rwanda in a final, inconsequential match on Monday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.