The Super Eagles of Nigeria opened their Africa Cup of Nations journey with a draw, securing a 1-1 result against Equatorial Guinea at Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, as reported by Nigeriasoccernet.com reports
Despite a slow start, Nigeria found their stride with star striker Victor Osimhen exploiting the opposition's weak high line defense.
Equatorial Guinea's Evan Edu scored first in the 36th minute, but Nigeria swiftly responded, with Ademola Lookman's precise cross setting up Osimhen for a header just two minutes later.
In the second half, Nigeria, though fired up, lacked precision in front of the goal. Despite opportunities, including a miss by Zaidu Sanusi, they couldn't break the deadlock. Osimhen's one-on-one chance was denied by Equatorial Guinea's goalkeeper Jesus Owono.
Manager Jose Peseiro made strategic substitutions, introducing Joel Aribo, Samuel Chukwueze, Calvin Bassey, and Jamilu Collins, but Equatorial Guinea's defense held firm.
With one point each, Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea are tied for second in Group A.
The Super Eagles face a formidable challenge against host Côte d’Ivoire on Thursday.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun