Nigeria’s Super Eagles stunned the Pharoahs of Egypt in their opening game of Group D at the African Cup of Nations in Cameroon, beating the pre-tournament favourites 1-0 to claim a historic win in Garoua.

Kelechi Iheanacho’s well taken first half strike earned Nigeria a comfortable win over Egypt, with the Super Eagles playing the best game of the AFCON tournament so far to take all three points and go top of Group D.

Although Egypt tried to come back in the contest, but they hardly ruffled their Nigerian counterparts when they surged for an equalizer in the last ten minutes of the game, with the Super Eagles keeping it tight and not giving away the ball needlessly.

Moses Simon was a livewire for the Super Eagles on the wings, tormenting the Egyptian rightback as he created chances for his team from the left flank. Simon swiveled and made runs, almost finding the net for the opener when Joe Aribo had played him in.

Simon eventually had a hand in the goal, crossing the ball, but Egypt’s failed clearance saw the rebound fall to Iheanacho who anticipated the ball, and then perfectly placed his shot into the top corner to give Nigeria the lead.

Nigeria had chances to extend their lead, creating more in the second half when Taiwo Awoniyi who got a rare chance in the team, headed in a cross from the impressive Ola Aina on to the cross bar.

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah was well isolated in attack, but the rare chance he got after being through on Nigeria’s goal, Maduka Okoye got a foot to his shot to prevent the equalizer.

It was an all round exciting display from Nigeria, who kept the ball on the ground and held possession. CSKA Moscow forward, Chidera Ejuke almost doubled Nigeria’s lead on the break, but was kept out by Mohamed El Shenawy.

With the win, Nigeria is in firm control of the group having played the seemingly most difficult game of the group.

 

 

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Very proficient in writing and talking about football, but has now found a new love in Athletics. Just a matter of time before I become a master on things pertaining to the tracks. Formerly the Content Manager-Sports at NigerianBulletin and Allsports, Christopher is now a Senior Sports writer at Making of Champions.

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