Super Eagles soar to top of Group L

by Staff Reporter

Wednesday Nov 13, 2019. 20:00

Nigeria got their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifying campaign off the perfect start with a 2-1 win over Benin at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Wednesday evening.

Victory moves the Super Eagles top of Group L after one round of fixtures, with Sierra Leone and Lesotho having played out a 1-1 draw in Freetown at the same time.

Benin silenced the home crowd as Stephane Sessegnon fired the visitors into an early lead. A lapse in concentration set up the former Premier League attacker for an easy finish as he fired home past Daniel Akpeyi with just five minutes on the clock.

Nigeria improved as the half went on and after Samuel Chukwueze rattled the woodwork, the Super Eagles were handed a golden chance to level matters on the cusp of half-time after Ola Aina was bundled over in the penalty area.

Lille’s Victor Osimhen stepped up to the spot and continued his goal-scoring form to draw the two teams level in first-half stoppage time.

Samuel Kalu sealed all three points in the 63rd minute following a superb solo effort as Nigeria now turn their attention to Lesotho, who they will face in Maseru on Sunday.

Next up for Benin is a home fixture versus Sierra Leone this coming weekend.