Home-based Eagles defeat Benin, qualify for CHAN 2018
Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles have qualified for the 2018 Championship for African Nations billed to take place in Kenya after defeating the Republic of Benin.
Nigeria sealed their place in Kano courtesy of a 2-1 aggregate scoreline having previously lost 0-1 in the first leg last week in Cotonou.
Rabiu Ali opened the scoring in the 21st minute and Kingley Eduwo doubled the lead in the 47th.
Mama Saibu blew away a 63rd minute penalty kick awarded to the Squirrels of Republic of Benin.
Fans, including the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president, Amaju Pinnick, the League Management Company (LMC) chairman, Shehu Dikko, sports minister, Solomon Dalung and Kano deputy governor, Hafiz Abubakar, were at the stadium to cheer the Eagles.
Super Eagles head coach, Gernot Rohr, said after the match that dedication, good team spirit, and mental strength were responsible for the victory.
“Positive attitude has helped us very much and I also want to commend the players for their discipline, dedication and fighting spirit,” Rohr said.
“Now, what is left for us is to prepare for the championship in Kenya in good time in order to lift the trophy.”
He also said he was satisfied with the standard of the Nigeria Professional Football League and the players.
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