African Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, found the net for Nigeria as they settled for a 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea in a Group A clash at the Africa Cup of Nations in Abidjan on Sunday. The match ended with both teams securing a point each, trailing behind leaders and hosts Ivory Coast.
The highly anticipated tournament began on Saturday with Ivory Coast securing a 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau at the same Ebimpe Olympic Stadium.
The Super Eagles were unable to secure the expected victory in their quest for a fourth African title regardless of Nigeria being 46 places higher than Equatorial Guinea in the world rankings.
Osimhen, the Napoli forward, had an early opportunity in the fifth minute but failed to convert, sending his shot over the crossbar. Nigeria dominated possession in the early stages, and Zaidu Sanusi had a chance 10 minutes into the game, but his shot went high and wide.
Equatorial Guinea gained momentum as the first half progressed and took the lead in the 36th minute through midfielder Iban Edu (known as Ivan Salvador Edu in Spain). Edu received a pass from Jose Machin and skillfully placed the ball past the stationary Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Nigeria swiftly responded, with Osimhen equalizing just two minutes later. Ademola Lookman delivered a cross from Atalanta, and Osimhen, representing the defending Serie A champions, nodded the ball into the net at the far post.
In the second half, Equatorial Guinea’s goalkeeper, Jesus Owono, showcased impressive saves to deny Nigeria’s attempts to take the lead. Nigeria faced a setback when midfielder Alhassan Yusuf, a late addition to the squad, retired injured midway through the half.
Despite Osimhen having a great chance to put Nigeria ahead in the 76th minute, his one-on-one opportunity with Ewono resulted in a shot that went past the goalkeeper but wide of the goal.
In the upcoming Group A matches on Thursday, Equatorial Guinea will face Guinea-Bissau, while Ivory Coast will take on Nigeria in what promises to be a compelling encounter in the mini-league.
Reported By AGENCIES (AFP)
