The Super Eagles had a tough outing against Benin Republic in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matchday five encounter, with the game ending in a 1-1 draw.
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Here’s how the players performed:
Stanley Nwabali (5/10):
The Chippa United goalkeeper looked rusty, especially in the first half. He conceded a cheap goal and failed to deliver his best performance.
Ola Aina (5/10):
A disappointing performance from the Nottingham Forest defender, who was replaced by Bright Osayi-Samuel in the 82nd minute.
Gabriel Osho (4/10):
A difficult debut for the versatile centre-back, with Moses Simon taking his place after the break.
William Troost-Ekong (6/10):
The captain had a good battle with Steve Mounie, coming out on top and preventing the Benin striker from scoring.
Calvin Bassey (4/10):
A tough game for the Fulham defender, who struggled to contain the lively Junior Olaitan.
Bruno Onyemaechi (6/10):
One of Nigeria’s best performers on the night, especially strong in the first half.
Wilfred Ndidi (6/10):
An average but solid display from the defensive midfielder, contributing defensively throughout the game.
Alex Iwobi (5/10):
Iwobi struggled to impose himself on the game and was substituted for Victor Boniface in the 72nd minute.
Kelechi Iheanacho (4/10):
A disappointing performance from Iheanacho, who was subbed off after the break due to his ineffective display.
Ademola Lookman (4/10):
Despite his hard work, Lookman was well-marked and failed to make an impact in the match.
Victor Osimhen (6/10):
Osimhen missed a couple of chances but rescued Nigeria with the equalising goal in the 82nd minute.
Substitutes:
Moses Simon (5/10):
Simon provided the crucial assist for Osimhen’s equaliser but didn’t offer much beyond that.
Raphael Onyedika (4/10):
Onyedika did not have much influence after coming on in the second half.
Victor Boniface (3/10):
Boniface’s impact was minimal after replacing Iheanacho, as he struggled to make a difference in the attack.
Bright Osayi-Samuel (2/10):
Osayi-Samuel’s contribution was limited to defensive duties after replacing Aina late in the game.
Frank Onyeka (Not Rated):
Did not play enough to be rated.
The Super Eagles had their hands full against a resilient Benin side but were lucky to salvage a point thanks to Osimhen’s late equaliser. There is much work to be done as Nigeria prepares for their next fixtures in the AFCON qualifiers.
