AFCON 2023: Nigeria share points with Equatorial Guinea; Osimhen on scoresheet

Both teams are part of Group A in AFCON 2023

Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea drew 1-1 to begin their AFCON 2023 competition. In the game’s 36th minute, Ivan Salvado gave Guniea the lead, putting the Super Eagles down. However, Nigeria reacted swiftly as Napoli striker Victor Osimhen headed from the far post.

The Nigerian missed an incredible chance to put his country ahead, but we can’t expect too much from a striker with his level of quality who has been linked to several European clubs.

Nigeria, who are considered the tournament favourites, produced a lot of openings but faltered in front of goal. They will undoubtedly be disappointed with the result because they deserved to win the game.

The host Ivory Coast, who triumphed over Guniea-Bissau 2-0, will be the Super Eagles’ next opponent. The José Peseiro team will be under duress to win out on a draw because they will require a win to maintain their ambitions.

After opening his AFCON account today, Osimhen will be looking to make a statement in his next game. The former LOSC Lille forward had an opportunity to win the match for his team. In the upcoming game, hopefully, he will try to make up for it.

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Nigeria are already blighted with injuries and Osimhen is their only sole attacking player to lead the forward line in the competition.

The Super Eagles had a golden chance after newcomer Alhassan Yusuf’s pass found the full-back in the open near the penalty region, but Zaidu Sanusi hoisted it high over the bar.

Additionally, with the game tied at zero goals, Osimhen, the top scorer in the tournament qualifying round, wasted a good opportunity by heading Ola Aina’s enticing delivery wide.

In an attempt to capture the title for the very first time since 2013, Nigeria, the three-time continental winners, were unable to overcome rivals who had defeated the defending champions Algeria en route to the 2021 finals quarterfinals.

Owono deflected a low shot from Moses Simon against his left-hand upright shortly before half-time in addition to turned-out chances from Sanusi, Osimhen and Aina as the remainder of the half went on.

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