Three goals from different players earned the Super Eagles a spot in the knockout stages of the African Cup of Nations
By Kehinde Okeowo
Super Eagles coasted to a 3-1 victory over Falcons of Jediane of Sudan at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and booked their spot in the last 16.
Nigeria opened their account as early as the 3rd minute of the encounter when Samuel Chukueze scored from a pass from Simon Moses to give the Super Eagles a 1-0 lead.
The second was a somewhat freak goal, as a clearing header from Salaheldin Nemer cannoned in off Bundesliga striker, Taiwo Awoniyi.
ALSO READ: De Bruyne scores a curling drive to move City 13 points clear
But the Austin Eguavoen tutored side could have had further first-half goals as William Troost-Ekong had an effort blocked by a defender while Joe Aribo’s effort hit the post.
Simon Moses turned from a goal provider to a goal scorer shortly after the resumption of play in the 46th when he made it 3-0 to the Super Eagles.
Walieldin Khedr pulled a goal back for Sudan from the penalty spot after Ola Aina was penalised for a challenge.
The Fulham right-back was adjudged to have fouled Sudanese defender Mustafa Karshoum, pulling his shirt as a corner was swung in, following a video assistant referee review.
Nigeria had earlier beaten Egypt 1-0 in their Group D opener, and the emphatic result against the 125th ranked team in the world is a statement of intent.
The Super Eagles, who are chasing a fourth trophy, will round off their group campaign against Guinea-Bissau on Wednesday and will face a third-placed side in the last 16 if they can top their group.
