TheCable

Super Eagles of Nigeria got their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign off to a flying start with a triumph over Benin Republic, their west African neighbours.

The match took place on Wednesday evening at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, capital of Akwa Ibom state.

Gernot Rohr’s men would have had an uphill struggle if they had lost but showed exactly why they won the 2019 AFCON Bronze with a brilliant 2-1 victory.

Things didn’t get off to a good start for Nigeria though as they fell behind on five minutes.

Sloppy defending allowed a free space for Stephane Sessegnon to slot the ball past a stranded Daniel Akpeyi in the box as the Squirrels stunned the Super Eagles.

The Nigerian team then piled up the pressure and were awarded a spot kick after Ola Aina, Super Eagles defender, was tackled in the box.

Victor Osimhen, Lille striker, stepped up to level matters from the penalty box.

First half of the pulsating battle ended 1-1.

After the break, the Super Eagles increased their tempo and it paid off as they had their second goal through Samuel Kalu, three minutes after the hour.

Rohr had earlier tackled the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over its unfair fixtures for the qualifying games ahead of the tournament, slated for 2021.