Nigeria’s Super Eagles have secured their spot in the Round of 16 at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny.
The lone goal, an own goal by Opa Sangate, occurred seven minutes before halftime, redirecting Moses Simon’s cross.
In response to injuries, coach Jose Peseiro made four changes to the starting lineup from the previous match against Cote d’Ivoire. Kenneth Omeruo assumed the captain’s role, Bright Osayi Samuel earned his first AFCON start, and Moses Simon and Joe Aribo were given the nod.
Despite Nigeria maintaining their 3-4-3 formation, they struggled to control the game early on, with Guinea-Bissau dominating possession. However, Nigeria capitalized on their chance just past the hour mark when Opa Sangante deflected a low cross from Simon into his own net.
The Super Eagles failed to build on their lead, and the first half concluded without further goals. The second half saw Nigeria on the offensive, with missed opportunities, including Simon’s decision to dribble the keeper instead of scoring.
Although Osimhen found the net later, it was disallowed for a handball. Nigeria’s attack was subpar, with Osimhen missing a header from a promising Aina cross.
Despite Guinea-Bissau thinking they had an equalizer, it was rightly disallowed for offside. Nigeria also had a goal disallowed later. With the win, Nigeria secured a place in the knockout stage with seven points from three games, finishing as Group A runners-up.
In other Group A action, Equatorial Guinea outclassed hosts Cote d’Ivoire 4-0, securing their top spot with the same points as Nigeria but a better goal difference. The Super Eagles will face the second-placed team from Group C, which could be Senegal, Guinea, or Cameroon, in the Round of 16.
Notably, Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, congratulated the Super Eagles for their performance, emphasizing their resilience and indomitable spirit. The Edo State Football Association also honoured players Ahmed Musa and Victor Osimhen for their contributions to Nigerian football and Edo State heritage.
The ceremony included presenting souvenirs to both players and expressing the state’s support and pride in their achievements.
