Osimhen rescues qualified Super Eagles as Group D’s 2nd ticket remains uncertain
A late goal from Victor Osimhen saved the day for the Super Eagles who forced a 1-1 draw with Benin Republic at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan which had hitherto become Benin Republic’s slaughter ground of visiting teams.
After a ferocious opening by the Super Eagles, the Benin Republic suddenly turned the tide as defender Mohammed Tijani surged forward to beat the Nigerian defence line in the 16th minute.
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With the goal, it was the first time that the Super Eagles had conceded in the series and it looked as if Benin had also picked a ticket, moving to a 9-point haul that would have been unassailable by either Rwanda and Libya even if they win their respective last matches on Monday.
As they held on tenaciously to the lead, Victor Osimhen leaped high in between two Beninese defenders to nod in a cross from Simon Moses from the left flank.
That changed the narrative as Benin will now have to play hard to pick a qualification ticket on Monday when they meet Libya.
But it is still advantage for Benin Republic owing to their better goal difference. Even if they are beaten by Libya and tie at seven points apiece, Libya will need a heavy scoreline to wipe off their current deficit of four.
The second ticket from Group D is still open to the trio of Benin, Rwanda and Libya. But it is advantageous Benin. All could end up with seven points apiece if Libya beat Benin Republic and Rwanda beat Nigeria in Uyo.
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