Nigeria Secure AFCON Spot with Gritty Draw Against Benin

Nigeria’s Super Eagles confirmed their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against neighbors Benin Republic on Thursday night. The clash at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny was a tense affair, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance.

Benin struck first in the 16th minute through Mohamed Tijani, who headed in Junior Olaitan’s well-placed corner kick. For much of the game, the Cheetahs looked set to claim a famous win over their rivals. But Victor Osimhen, the Galatasaray superstar, had other plans.

With just nine minutes left on the clock, Osimhen salvaged a point for the Super Eagles with a powerful header, converting Moses Simon’s pinpoint cross. It marked Osimhen’s 23rd international goal in just 38 appearances, cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s finest strikers.

Breaking Down the Numbers

The draw showcased several standout performances, with key statistics highlighting the contributions of individual players:

Victor Osimhen: The Sharpshooter
Osimhen led the game in shots, recording two on target and one off. His decisive equalizer proved critical in Nigeria’s qualification campaign.

Ademola Lookman: Dribble King
Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman was the game’s top dribbler, completing two successful take-ons. No other player managed more than one.

Calvin Bassey: The Ball Magnet
Central defender Calvin Bassey was heavily involved, recording a game-high 103 touches. He also completed 76 passes, the most for Nigeria, with a 90% accuracy rate.

Wilfred Ndidi: The Midfield Maestro
Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi was a defensive stalwart, registering six defensive actions, three tackles, and four aerial duels—both team-highs. He also won a game-best ten duels and completed 69 passes at an impressive 90% accuracy.

Moses Simon: Super Sub
Despite playing only the second half, Simon delivered two key passes, including the assist for Osimhen’s equalizer.

Junior Olaitan: Creative yet Wasteful
Benin’s Junior Olaitan impressed with three key passes but also lost possession a game-high 21 times.

Defensive Grit and Tactical Battles

The Super Eagles had standout defensive moments, with Troost-Ekong and Onyemaechi also contributing solidly, though both were culpable for giving away possession 17 times. On Benin’s side, Hassane Imourane stood out defensively with two interceptions.

Nigeria’s place in Côte d’Ivoire 2025 is now assured, and the focus will shift to fine-tuning the squad for the tournament. For now, though, the Super Eagles can celebrate another successful qualification campaign.