On Sunday, Victor Osimhen scored his first goal at the Africa Cup of Nations in Nigeria vs Equatorial Guinea. But Nigeria couldn’t beat Equatorial Guinea in their first Group A match. Osimhen’s header in the 38th minute, assisted by Ademola Lookman, equalized the game after Equatorial Guinea took a surprise lead. Iban Salvador had scored for Equatorial Guinea, 100 seconds later.
Despite numerous opportunities, Nigeria couldn’t capitalize on their chances to secure a victory in the match. This included a one-on-one opportunity missed by Osimhen. The game concluded with a final score of 1-1.
Osimhen boasts an impressive record, having scored 21 goals in 28 international appearances for the Super Eagles. As a testament to his outstanding performance, the Napoli striker clinched the African Men’s Footballer of the Year award in December 2023. The draw on Sunday marked the second Group A game, following tournament hosts Ivory Coast’s 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau earlier in the weekend.
Game Analysis
The first group stage match was played at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in the capital city of Abidjan.
Nigeria aimed to seize an early lead, attempting a long shot within the first minute of kick-off, but the goalkeeper successfully made the save.
In the 36th minute, Guinea’s forward, Ivan Salvador, secured the first goal for his team with a left shot that left the goalkeeper with no chance of saving.
However, Nigeria swiftly responded, equalizing the score just two minutes later with a header from striker Victor Osimhen, concluding the first half at 1-1.
Despite numerous missed opportunities from both teams, notably Nigeria, in the second half, the match concluded in a draw.
Nigeria is set to face off against Cote d’Ivoire in their second group-stage match on January 18.
Nigeria vs Equatorial Guinea: Player of the Match
Jesus Owono rightfully earns the Player of the Match accolade for a remarkable performance against Nigeria. The Guinean goalkeeper showcased exceptional skill by making six crucial saves, ensuring his team secured a vital point in their AFCON opener.
Player Ratings
Nigeria: Nigeria vs Equatorial Guinea
Nwabili (5)
Troost-Ekong (6)
Ajayi (7)
Sanusi (5)
Aina (6)
Yusuf (7)
Onyeka (7)
Iwobi (6)
Simon (6)
Lookman (7)
Osimhen (6).
Substitutes:
Aribo (6)
Chukwueze (6)
Bassey (6)
Osayi-Samuel (7)
Onuachu (-).
Equatorial Guinea:
Owono (8)
Akapo (6)
Obiang (6)
Coco (7)
Ndong (5)
Ganet (7)
Bikoro (7)
Machin (6)
Buyla (6)
Salvador (7)
Nsue (6).
Substitutes:
Balboa (5),
Adjugu (6),
Eneme (5),
Asue (-).