SPORT

Nigeria Tops Group D After Draw Against Benin in AFCON 2025 Qualifiers

Written by Jerry Alomatu on November 15, 2024

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Nigeria secured the top spot in Group D of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers with a 1-1 draw against Benin Republic at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on Thursday 14th November 2024.

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, on loan, rescued a point for the Super Eagles with an 81st-minute header after the home team initially took the lead through a first-half header.

This draw brought Nigeria’s total points to an unassailable 11, confirming their qualification for the tournament in Morocco. Earlier in the day, Libya’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali had already secured Nigeria’s place.

Prior to facing Benin, Nigeria had not conceded any goals in the qualification series. However, in the 16th minute, defender Mohamed Tijani broke through, heading the ball between Stanley Nwabali’s legs from a well-executed corner, giving Benin the advantage.

Osimhen had an opportunity to equalize before halftime but sent his header wide from Bruno Onyemaechi’s cross, marking Nigeria’s best chance in the first half.

Former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr sought to lead his Benin side to a tactical victory against his former team. The Cheetahs came close to extending their lead in both halves but were unable to capitalize.

Despite a lackluster overall performance from Austin Eguavoen’s side, Osimhen’s second-half header ensured Nigeria retained the group’s top spot. Benin, now with seven points, joins Rwanda (five points) and Libya (four points) in the race for the final qualification ticket ahead of the last matchday.

Nigeria’s final group match will be against Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Monday. While Nigeria plays for pride, Rwanda will aim to secure a surprise win and claim the remaining qualification spot. The Cheetahs will travel to Libya for their concluding group game.