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The Super Eagles of Nigeria left it late to claim a 1-0 victory over Benin at the Stade Charles de Gaulle Stadium on Saturday through a Paul Onuachu strike in the 93rd minute.
The victory ensured the Super Eagles will top the group irrespective of the result of the final group match.
Onuachu who inflicted a first home loss on Benin in eight years nodded home from a goalmouth scramble.
Nigeria had their chance to open the scoresheet in the first half when Henry Onyekuru was denied by the goalkeeper, Saturnin Allagbe.
Victor Osimhen who plays for Italian side, Napoli also came close to scoring with a fine effort.
Benin had their chances though Steve Mounie who registered two attempts in the space of one minute but Super Eagles goalie, Maduka Okoye was equal to the task to keep the tie bare.
Nigerian coach, Gernot Rohr brought on Onuachu in place of Kelechi Iheanacho in the 70th minute, while Benin also had Michael Pote replace Cebio Soukou.
Anayo Iwuala who plays for NPFL side Enyimba made his debut nine minutes from time when he replaced Henry Onyekuru.
Two minutes later, Chidozie Awaziem took the place of Ola Aina for Nigeria’s third substitution of the game.
Onuachu’s last-minute goal ensured the Super Eagles top their group and condemn Benin to their first home loss in eight years.
The Super Eagles lead the standings in Group L with 11 points from five matches, while Benin trail with seven points and Sierra Leone follow in the third spot with four points.
Nigeria will conclude the qualifiers with a home match against Lesotho at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos on Tuesday.
This post was written by Obiajulu Joel Nwolu.
The views expressed here belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect our views and opinions.