In a highly anticipated face-off at Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Nigeria commenced their journey in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday. Despite the first goal of Victor Osimhen in the tournament, the Super Eagles found themselves settling for a 1-1 draw.
From the onset, Nigeria, in a dominant position, struggled to impose a threat in the opposing half. Against expectations, N’zalang Nacional seized the lead with Ivàn Edú Salvador‘s precise left-footed shot beating Stanley Nwabili in the 37th minute.
Swiftly responding, Nigeria equalized through Victor Osimhen, heading in a cross from Lookman to level the score at the 39th minute. Equatoguineans held their ground, maintaining the deadlock at halftime (1-1).
In the second half, the Super Eagles returned with renewed determination but faced a formidable Jesús Owono, who thwarted their attempts at the 52nd, 55th, and 56th minutes. Despite mounting pressure, Nigeria couldn’t breach the Equatorial Guinea defense until the South African referee’s final whistle.
This 1-1 draw between Nigerians and Equatoguineans sees Ivory Coast securing the top spot in Group A after the opening matchday.
The upcoming matches in Group A are set for Thursday, January 18, in the afternoon. Equatorial Guinea is will take on Guinea Bissau at 2 pm GMT, while Ivory Coast, the host nation, will engage in a highly anticipated clash against Nigeria.
AfrikPage
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Publish date : 2024-01-14 03:00:00
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