Nigeria survived a scare on the opening day of the AFCON 2021 Qualifiers as the Super Eagles fought back to beat Benin Republic 2⃣-1⃣ at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, reports OwoSports.com.
Samuel Kalu was the hero of the game as his winning goal in the 62nd secured the maximum 3points, and Group L top spot for Nigeria.
Stephane Sessegnon gave the Squirrels a surprised lead as he profited from the Eagles sloppy defending to shoot the ball past a helpless Daniel Akpeyi in the 3rd minute.
As the clock near 45mins Nigeria was awarded a penalty after Ola Aina was fouled inside Benin Republic box.
Victor Osimhen made no mistake from the spot to level scores for the AFCON 2019 bronze winners.
The Super Eagles were the better team in the second half and were rewarded for their efforts as Samuel Kalu made it 2⃣-1⃣, to the delight of Uyo fans.
The Bordeaux of France winger waltzed past three Benin Squirrels into the box and slotted into the bottom corner from close range.
The squad will then fly to Maseru to play Lesotho’s Crocodiles on Sunday, 17th November, on MatchDay Two of the qualifying series.