Super Eagles Stumble in 2023 AFCON Opener, Held to a 1-1 Draw by Equatorial Guinea

In a lackluster performance, the Super Eagles of Nigeria commenced their 2023 African Cup of Nations campaign with a disheartening 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea at the Olympic Stadium of Ebimpé on Sunday.

The result earned Equatorial Guinea’s first-ever point against Nigeria in an international tournament and extended Nigeria’s winless streak extended to five matches across all competitions.

The Super Eagles created several scoring opportunities during the game, but they were let down by poor finishes.

Zaidu Sanusi missed a golden opportunity in the opening eleven minutes, leaving the FC Porto man to rue a chance with an open net at his mercy.

Equatorial Guinea then capitalized on Nigeria’s lapse, seizing the lead against the run of play in the 36th minute as Iván Salvador guided the ball into the bottom corner from the penalty spot.

The Super Eagles swiftly responded, equalizing within two minutes as Victor Osimhen connected with Ademola Lookman’s exquisite cross, nodding in a close header.

Despite dominating the second half, Nigeria faltered to convert chances, with Equatorial Guinea’s goalkeeper, Jesús Owono, denying Sanusi and Osimhen’s attempts to find the back of the net.

As the game approached its final 20 minutes, Owono thwarted Ola Aina’s single-handed strike with a smart save, preventing Nigeria from securing a crucial victory.

Frustration mounted for Nigeria as Osimhen, the 2023 CAF Footballer of the Year, failed to capitalize on the team’s final goalscoring opportunity, miscuing a shot wide of the post.

Looking ahead, the Super Eagles aim to recover against hosts Ivory Coast on Thursday, with the Elephants currently leading Group A after defeating Guinea Bissau on Saturday.