Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated their counterparts from the Benin Republic 2-1 on Wednesday to record their first home victory in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.
Goals from Victor Osimhen and Samuel Kalu gave the three-time African champions the three points over the Squirrels of Benin.
Former West Brom star, Stephane Sessegnon opened the scoring for the visiting team in the third minute of the encounter as he benefitted from a sloppy defending from Eagles defenders.
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Lille striker, Victor Osimhen gave Nigerians hope after scoring from the spot-kick in the 45th minute as Ola Aina was brought down in the opponents’ 18-yard box.
At the resumption of the second half, Nigeria continued to pile more pressure and was later rewarded as Samuel Kalu dribbled past Benin defenders before slotting the ball home for Super Eagles’ second goal in the 63rd minute.
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Osimhen would have doubled his goal but his shot hit the woodwork to the dismay of the home fans.
Super Eagles’ next match will be away to Lesotho on Sunday.