The Nzalang Nationale of Equatorial Guinea held the Super Eagles of Nigeria to a 1-1 draw on Sunday afternoon as both sides began their Africa Cup of Nations Group A fixtures at Ebimpe’s Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium in Abidjan.
A composed finish by Ivan Salvador in the 36th minute of play gave Equatorial Guinea a shock lead but the celebrations were short-lived after reigning African Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen levelled the score for Nigeria with a difficult header, just two minutes later.
With the crowd behind them, the Eagles searched for their second goal and were almost rewarded in the 45th minute when Moses Simon’s well struck effort came off the upright to the relief of the Equatoguineans.
Despite many chances in the second half, Nigeria failed to get the winning goal with Osimhen missing a big chance in the 75th minute, as the game ended 1-1.
Jose Peseiro’s men will next face host nation, Cote d’Ivoire on Thursday. The Elephants began their campaign with a decisive 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau on Saturday evening.
Equatorial Guinea on the other hand will be up against a wounded Guinea-Bissau on the same day.
Cote d’Ivoire lead Group A with three points while Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria are a point apiece above Guinea-Bissau.
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