- Safiu Kehinde
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have sealed their qualification spot for the 2025 African Cup of Nations with 1-1 draw against Benin Republic.
The Augustine Eguavoen-led Eagles travelled to Benin for the return leg of the qualifier.
Having already qualified through Libya’s earlier defeat of Rwanda, Nigeria faced Benin Republic with nothing to lose.
However, the host needed a win against the already qualified Nigeria to boost their hope of also qualifying.
They jumped into an early lead with a 12th minute opener.
The host nation, led by former Super Eagles’ coach, Gernot Rohr, sought to double their lead before halftime.
They, however, failed to break the Super Eagles water right defense as the game advanced to the second half.
Despite dominating the host, Nigeria failed find the back of the net as the match entered the last 10 minutes, giving Benin Republic a blight of hope.
Unfortunately, their hope will be dashed as Victor Osimhen’s 81st minute header brought the game to a 1-1 leveller.
With no other goals from both sides, the match ended in 1-1 draw to seal Super Eagles qualification for the 2025 AFCON showdown in Morocco.
Meanwhile the Super Eagles sit on top of the Group D table with 11 points while Benin Republic maintained the second position with 7 points.