Victor Osimhen’s dramatic 81st-minute header, assisted by Simon Moses, has sealed Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Facing a tough challenge from Benin in their AFCON qualifier, the Super Eagles were trailing 1-0 after Mohamed Tijani’s first-half goal. Despite dominating possession, Nigeria struggled to break through Benin’s defense, leaving the game hanging in the balance.

As the match neared its conclusion, Osimhen came through when it mattered most, rising above the defense to score a crucial equalizer from Moses’ perfectly delivered cross. The goal ensured Nigeria earned a 1-1 draw, securing their passage to next year’s tournament in Morocco.

Following the match, Turkish football giants Galatasaray, who famously won the 1999-2000 UEFA Europa League, took to social media to congratulate Osimhen for his decisive performance. The club celebrated his role in securing Nigeria’s spot in the tournament, saying, “Congratulations to Victor Osimhen who scored the only goal for Nigeria in the 1-1 draw with Benin in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, securing their qualification from the group stage.”

With 11 points in the group, Nigeria is now assured of their place in the 2025 AFCON finals, with a final qualifier against Rwanda still to play. The Super Eagles will look to finish their campaign on a strong note when they host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.