AFCON Qualifier: Nigeria top table after five-goal thriller in Tunisia

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have moved to the top of Group E table of the qualifying series for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon after a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Libya in Tunisia.

China-based striker Odion Ighalo put the Super Eagles ahead in the 14th minute after receiving a fine pass from skipper Ahmed Musa.

Ighalo tuned provider as he set Musa up for the second goal just three minutes after.

The hosts who have been knocking the door since after the two quick fire goals from their visitors, were able to reduce the lead few minutes before the interval as Mohamed Zaebiaa nods home from a corner-kick.

The Libyans came out blazing from the break, attacking the Super Eagles from all sides.

And in the 74th minute, their efforts paid off when Ahmed Ben Ali hit a rebound to level the tally for his side.

At 2-2, coach Gernot Rohr made two quick changes, bringing on John Ogwu for Oghenekaro Etebo and Henry Onyekuru for Samuel Kalu to put the team back in shape.

His tactical changes paid off as Ighalo smashed home his second of the night and fifth in just four days to ensure victory for the Super Eagles and push them to the summit of the table with 9 points.

South Africa had played a goalless draw with Seychelles to drop to the second position with 8 points

Newsflash Nigeria is an online newspaper that is developed and written exclusively for Nigerians. It’s packed with up-to-the-minute Local and National Economy News, Share & Capital Market, Health, Sports, Education, Technology, Business and Opinions.

To make further advert enquiries or place an order, please contact us at [email protected] and +2348053316946 and WhatsApp number 08033546732