The Super Eagles of Nigeria returned to action Thursday evening, battling for a win against Benin Republic in an AFCON 2025 qualifier, only to settle for a 1-1 draw.
The match at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny saw the Super Eagles come from behind.
In the second half, a precise cross from Moses Simon found Victor Osimhen, who scored with a glancing header to keep Nigeria at the top of Group D with 11 points.
Despite the draw, Nigeria continues to maintain dominance at the top and looks to secure a stronger performance in their next outing.
Here are the individual player ratings from Austin Eguavoen's side in this closely contested encounter.
Stanley Nwabali – 4
Nwabali’s error on Benin’s opening goal was reminiscent of Francis Uzoho’s past mistakes. The Chippa United goalkeeper should have done better, allowing the shot to slip under his legs.
Gabriel Osho – 3
A nervous first half for Osho, who struggled in his first game for Nigeria. He was replaced by Raphael Onyedika at halftime due to a lackluster display.
William Troost-Ekong – 4
The Al-Kholood captain had a shaky outing with misplaced passes and uncoordinated defensive efforts, making it easy for Benin’s attackers to get past him.
Ola Aina – 4
The Nottingham Forest full-back looked off-form. His link-up play was weak, and he lacked his usual forward drive, leading to his substitution after 81 minutes.
Calvin Bassey – 4
The Fulham defender appeared out of sorts, struggling to find his rhythm and adding little defensively or offensively.
Bruno Onyemaechi – 7
Dependable as ever, the Boavista full-back was solid throughout, creating chances and putting in a workhorse performance on both ends of the pitch.
Wilfred Ndidi – 5
Ndidi was competent but underwhelming. The Leicester City midfielder put in some effort but fell short of the impact expected from a player of his quality.
Alex Iwobi – 6
Iwobi showed promise, creating a few chances but failing to convert. He was replaced by Victor Boniface after missing some key opportunities.
Kelechi Iheanacho – 3
Iheanacho’s poor form continued, mirroring his struggles at Sevilla. He was taken off at halftime, with Moses Simon coming on in his place.
Ademola Lookman – 5
The Atalanta winger struggled to replicate his Serie A quality, unable to make a mark on the game before being replaced in stoppage time.
Victor Osimhen – 8
Although initially wasteful, the Galatasaray star ultimately delivered, heading in the equaliser in the 81st minute. His efforts salvaged a point for Nigeria.
Substitutes
Victor Boniface – 4
The Bayer Leverkusen forward came on with limited impact after taking the place of Iwobi.
Moses Simon – 8
Simon brought fresh energy, setting up Osimhen’s equaliser with a beautifully delivered cross.
Frank Onyeka – 3
Onyeka had minimal involvement after coming on late to replace Lookman.
Samuel Osayi-Samuel – 3
With little time left, Osayi-Samuel didn’t make a noticeable impact after replacing Aina.
Raphael Onyedika – 3
Onyedika struggled to adapt to the game’s pace but managed a steady performance until the final whistle.
