Iheanacho On Target As Super Eagles Stun Egypt

Nigeria defeated Egypt in their opening game of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon on Tuesday evening.

A first half super strike from Kelechi Iheanacho was enough to seal a 1-0 win for the Super Eagles against the Pharaohs in the Group D clash.

Much was said about Mohamed Salah being the main threat when these two sides meet but it was another Premier League star, Leicester City forward Iheanacho, who captured the headlines.

Nigeria started the match the livelier side, dictating the tempo of the game and going at the Egypt defence.

Super Eagles duo Moses Simon and Joe Aribo were the most potent in attack, creating chances and proving a nuisance to the Pharaohs who never really left first gear.

Nigeria finally made their chances count in the 30th minute when a Simon cross into the box was cleared only as far as Aribo. The midfielder headed the ball to Iheanacho who crashed a half-volley from the edge of the box into the top corner.

Also Read:

• “Super Eagles Will Remain Humble” – Eguavoen Reacts After Win Against Egypt
• AFCON 2021: Defending Champions Held To A Stalemate In Opener
• AFCON 2021: Morocco 1-0 Ghana – Boufal Nets In Underwhelming Tie
• AFCON 2021: Senegal 1-0 Zimbabwe – Mane Saves Senegal In Stoppage Time

The 25-year-old almost grabbed a second goal shortly after but his tame effort was directed straight at the goalkeeper.

Nigeria came very close to securing a second goal few minutes into the second half but Taiwo Awoniyi’s attempt could only rattle the crossbar.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah cast an isolated figure in attack with his teammates unable to get him involved in the game.

He finally got a sight of goal in the 70th minute but the pressure from two defenders stifled his attempt which was saved by Maduka Okoye’s foot and cleared.

The win means the Super Eagles put an end to Egypt’s 16-game unbeaten run in the group stages of the Africa Cup of Nations. It also means that Nigeria go top of Group D while condemning Egypt to the bottom.

Nigeria will face Sudan in their next Group D tie scheduled for January 15 while Egypt will take on Guinea Bissau.

Enjoyed the article? Share with others as well. Stay in the know, follow us on Twitter @punditgist.