The Super Eagles of Nigeria kicked off their 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea in Ivory Coast on Sunday.
Equatorial Guinea took the lead in the 37th minute with Iban Salvador scoring a well-placed shot that left the Super Eagles’ goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, motionless.
Nigeria quickly responded, and just before the halftime whistle, Victor Osimhen scored an equalizing goal with a powerful header.
Despite numerous opportunities in the second half, Nigeria was unable to secure the winning goal. Osimhen, who marked his first AFCON appearance with a goal, missed a significant chance in the 75th minute.
In Group A, Nigeria will face further challenges against Ivory Coast and Guinea Bissau in the upcoming matches of the tournament.