Nigeria has been forced to a 1-1 draw at full-time by the Elephant of Equatorial Guinea in their first game of group A. A frustrating start for Nigeria and what seems to be Equatorial Guinea’s nicest performance in recent times.
First Half:
Nigeria’s start was impressive, controlling the game with 54% ball possession against the 47% Equatorial Guinea managed. 7 goal attempts for the Eagles, with 2 on target. Iban Salvador took advantage of a poor defensive setup in the 36th minute to score the first goal, to the advantage of the Elephants. Super Eagles of Nigeria’s rapid response from Ademola Lookman’s assist to Victor Osimhen’s 38th equalizer for Nigeria. The tie ended at 1-1 after 45 minutes of play.
Second Half:
The game starts with more impressive tempo but without a breakthrough due to the defense wall of Equatorial Guinea. In the 63rd minute, Yusuf Alhassan picked up an injury. In the 68th minute, Nigeria made a double substitution, replacing the injured Yusuf with Aribo while Samuel Chukeueze came in for Simon Moses. In the 82 minutes, Bright Osayi and Calvin were introduced to Zaidu Sanusi and Ola Aina. Paul Onuachu was the last substitution made by Nigeria, and it’s Alex Iwobi who made way.
As it stands, the host Nation will retain the lead on the log of Group A after its tremendous 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau last night.
Nigeria’s next game comes up against Cote D’ Ivoire on Thursday evening.
