Nigeria's Super Eagles closed out their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2024) group-stage campaign with an interesting clash against Guinea-Bissau.
There was a lot at stake for José Peseiro's men. They could potentially take the top spot in Group A with a victory, guarantee a place in the knockout stages with at least a draw, or potentially be knocked out with a loss.
The Super Eagles proved they were up to the task, as they defeated Guinea-Bissau by a lone goal, clinching a spot in the Round of 16.
Opa Sangante's own goal hands Super Eagles the points
The first half of Nigeria's clash with Guinea-Bissau was a fairly balanced contest, as both sides tried to gain an edge.
Although there were a couple of chances for both teams to get on the scoresheet, the first goal didn't come until the 36th minute.
Moses Simon tried to find Victor Osimhen in the box with a cross, and while Guinea-Bissau's Opa Sangante tried to prevent the Napoli player from getting to the ball, he ended up putting it in his net.
The Super Eagles also had a golden chance to double their lead just before the half-time whistle, but Osimhen's header went wide.
Second-half drama in Guinea-Bissau vs Nigeria
Although there were no goals scored in the second half, it was more interesting than the first stanza. Three goals were ruled offside; two of those goals were Nigeria's, while the other was Guinea-Bissau's.
The Djurtus tried their best to get their first point of the tournament, but all their efforts proved to be futile.
Baciro Candé's troops registered a total of 12 shots, and five of those were on target. However, Nigeria's Stanley Nwabali put up a stellar performance, denying them every time.
On the other hand, only one of Nigeria's 11 shots went on target. The Super Eagles had more than their fair share of chances, but they were unable to convert.
In the end Peseiro's men were able to hold on for all three points.
What this result means for the Super Eagles
With their victory over Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria's Super Eagles have amassed seven points from a possible nine. However, they finished second in Group A, after hosts Ivory Coast suffered a humiliating loss to Equatorial Guinea.
Nzalang Nacional of Equatorial Guinea finished at the top of Group A with seven points. They are tied on points with Nigeria but ahead on goal difference.
On the other hand, Ivory Coast finished third with three points, while Guinea-Bissau find themselves at the bottom of the table with no points.
