By Salifu Usman,Abuja
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have booked their place at the year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco after a1-1 draw against Benin at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire on Thursday.
Benin opened the scoring in the 16th minute when Mohamed Tijani capitalized on a corner delivery from Junior Olaïtan, heading the ball into the center of the net.
The Super Eagles found themselves trailing despite creating opportunities, with Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon both testing Benin’s defence.
In the second half, Nigeria intensified their attack and were rewarded in the 81st minute when Osimhen met Simon’s cross with a precise header to level the score.
Benin fought hard to reclaim the lead, but Nigeria’s defence held firm, preserving the draw.
Nigeria’s qualification for TotalEnergies CAF AFCON marks a relief for fans and sets the stage for their preparations for the tournament.
With the results, Nigeria have officially qualified for the AFCON 2025 in Morocco, securing a top spot finish in Group D with unbeaten record.
Benin, meanwhile, remains in contention but will need positive results in their final game against Libya to have any chance of progressing.
Meanwhile, chairman of National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has extended his congratulations to the Super Eagles, praising their efforts and determination in securing qualification for AFCON 2025 with a match to spare.
Dikko said the qualification a game to spare reflects the team’s hard work, commitment, and talent.
Nigeria’s place in Morocco was earlier confirmed following Libya’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda, ensuring the Super Eagles’ qualification even before their 1-1 draw against Benin yesterday.
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