In the opening match of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Super Eagles faced off against Equatorial Guinea, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
Equatorial Guinea took the lead with a goal from Iban Salvador Edu in the 36th minute, but the Super Eagles quickly equalized two minutes later with a header from Victor Osimhen.
Despite the goal, Osimhen, the African best player, had a challenging match, missing several opportunities, including a point-blank effort sent wide. Ola Aina also faced a similar fate, repeatedly playing balls into the hands of Equatorial Guinea's goalkeeper.
The game witnessed the late arrival of AC Milan’s ace Samuel Chukwueze, who replaced Moses Simon after he struggled on the wing.
Debutant Alhassan Yusuf showed promise in the match, actively engaging opponents from box to box, but unfortunately suffered an injury just a few minutes into the second half and had to be stretchered out.
Looking ahead, the Super Eagles have their work cut out for them in the next match against Ivory Coast, while Equatorial Guinea aims for their first win when they face Guinea Bissau later in the week.
