The Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated the Pharaoh of Egypt 1-0 on Tuesday in their first group match at the 33rd Africa Cup in Garoua, Cameroon.
After Monday’s game between Morocco and Ghana saw the Atlas Lions come away with a 1-0 victory, we were treated to another matchup of expected title contenders, and the result showed one side is far more prepared to push for the crown than the other.
With today’s victory, Nigeria broke Egypt’s unbeaten record in their last 16 group matches at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigerian striker, Kelechi Iheanacho put the Eagles ahead on 30 minutes with a lethal left foot shot, following a Joe Aribo cross.
The Egyptian goalkeeper was caught napping as he couldn’t even make any move to save the shot.
Moses Simon had earlier wasted a big opportunity to put Nigeria in front after he received a brilliant pass and wasted the chance as his shot from inside the penalty area flew narrowly wide of the left post.
On 48 minutes, Taiwo Awoniyi connected with a cross from out wide in the six-yard box, but only planted his header onto the bar.
Mohamed Salah, who has been so quiet in the game, ran with the ball towards the keeper on 71 minutes and pulled the trigger from close range, but Maduka Okoye anticipated his intention and made an amazing save to stop the shot going low into the middle of the target.
Chidera Ejuke received a precise low pass inside the box on 77 minutes, controlled it and sent it straight at Mohamed El Shenawy, who made a comfortable save.
