The Super Eagles beat Central African Republic 2-0 today in Douala, Cameroon, to avenge Thursday’s loss in Lagos and move five points clear of their closest rivals in Group C of the 2022 World Cup
The Eagles now have nine points from four matches, five points ahead of closest rivals Liberia and Cape Verde, who both play later today.
Nigeria could qualify for the final playoffs of the qualifying series should they win their next game in Liberia next month as they will then have an unassailable 12 points with a round of matches still to be played.
Leon Balogun opened scoring for Nigeria in the 29th minute and his first goal for the Super Eagles after he raced into the box unmarked to expertly meet a long ball delivered by Chidozie Awaziem.
Victor Osimhen doubled the lead in first half stoppage time when he turned home a cross by William Ekong. It was his second goal in the qualifying tournament.
He was denied his brace in the 57th minute, when he rounded up the goalkeeper, but his goal-bound shot was cleared from danger by a defender.
The Eagles enjoyed the ball possession and virtually camped in the half of their opponents, who set up a highly organised defence, relying on the counter to attack, just as they had done three days ago in Lagos.
In the second half, the Wild Beasts surged forward as they chased the game, but they hardly troubled the Eagles defence with goalkeeper Maduka Okoye on holidays.
Besides the road win, skipper Ahmed Musa finally won his 100th cap for The Eagles since his debut in 2010.
He thus joined Vincent Enyeama and Joseph Yobo in that elite company.
Eagles Starting XI
Maduka Okoye – Chidozie Awaziem, Leon Balogun (Kenneth Omeruo 74), William Ekong – Jamilu Collins, Moses Simon, Frank Onyeka, Joe Aribo, Ahmed Musa (Captain) (Chidera Ejuke 67) – Kelechi Iheanacho (Innocent Bonke 76), Victor Osimhen
