SCORENigeria rates the individual performances of the Super Eagles in a 1-0 win against hosts Benin in Porto-Novo. It was an above average against a home team that did not offer much.
6 Maduka Okoye
He was calm and exuded confidence. He pulled off a big save to deny Benin in the first half, otherwise he was more of a spectator.
7 Zaidu Sanusi
The most adventurous of the defenders and could have got a great assist for his cross which was headed for goal by Onyekuru before the Benin goalkeeper somehow kept it out just before the break.
6 Ola Aina
Did the business on the right side of defence – no fancy stuff, just make sure your goal is safe.
6 William Ekong
Captain of the day. He organised the defence but was lucky a slip by him in the first half was not punished by Benin.
6 Leon Balogun
Solid and confident. ‘The Oyibo Wall’ is back and flourishing it seems.
6 Wilfred Ndidi
He was efficient in screening the back four. The lack of bite by the Benin attack made this a little stroll in the park.
6 Joe Aribo
The Rangers midfielder was picked ahead of Oghenekaro Etebo and was not out of place. He also joined the attack.
6 Samuel Chukwueze
He was again full of energy, but his predictability meant the Benin defence more often than not read his next move.
7 Henry Onyekuru
Worked his socks off in attack and defence. He was only denied a great goal by the brilliance of the Benin goalkeeper just before halftime.
6 Kelechi Iheanacho
The Leicester City striker played deeper in midfield, but showed the glimpses of the form he has displayed in England lately. This game showed he can play alongside Osimhen as a foil.
7 Victor Osimhen
Total commitment by the Napoli striker who wanted to prove a point or two after his troubles in Italy. He was unlucky when his powerful shot came off the post after it had beaten the goalkeeper early in the second half. He never shirked from his responsibilities. Heart of a lion.
8 Paul Onuachu Man of the Match
The Genk striker came off the subs’ bench to score the winner in stoppage time. It may only have been his second goal in 10 international appearances, but there is no denying he will continue to remain an option to lead the Super Eagles for some years to come. His goal amid lack of faith by Rohr showed great character.
Anayo Iwuala
The Enyimba winger showed some dare and bravado when he was introduced late for his Super Eagles debut. Promising start.
Chidozie Awaziem
Not enough minutes to rate him.
Nigeria Starting XI vs Benin (4-2-3-1) – Maduka Okoye – Zaidu Sanusi, Ola Aina (Chidozie Awaziem 83), Leon Balogun, William Ekong (Captain) – Wilfred Ndidi, Joe Aribo – Henry Onyekuru (Anayo Iwuala 81), Samuel Chukwueze, Kelechi Iheanacho (Paul Onuachu 70) – Victor Osimhen
