13th November, 2019
Villarreal’s forward Samuel Kalu on Wednesday shot Nigeria to the top of Group L of the 2021 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
The visitors had taken a surprise lead as early as the third minute of the game through Stephane Sessegnon.
The Super Eagles however rallied and got the equaliser through Victor Osimhen in the 45th minute from the penalty spot as the score ended 1-1 at the end of the first half.
Thanks to Kalu who was introduced in the second half. He ensured the Eagles bagged the three points when he scored in the 63rd minute, after a solo run, dazzling in between three defenders before burying the ball at the far right corner of the post.
In the other Group L game also played on Wednesday, Sierra Leone failed to beat Lesotho in Freetown as the game ended 1-1.
In continuation of the series, Nigeria will play against Lesotho on Sunday while Benin Republic will host Sierra Leone. The two top finishers will qualify for the final tournament in Cameroon.