Nigeria won their three opening group games at the Africa Cup of Nations, as Umar, Ekong score their first goal in the tournament
By Kehinde Okeowo
Guinea Bissau knew they had to beat three-time African champions Nigeria to stand any chance of qualifying for the round of 16 of the 33rd African Cup of Nations in Cameroon.
Super Eagles coach, Austin Eguavoen as expected played some fringe players having qualified and topped their group before the match started.
Nigeria dominated possession and goalmouth action in the first half but were unable to take advantage of the few chances they created, Umar Sadiq the most guilty of the lot.
Guinea Bissau came into the match in the final few minutes of the first half but they were also unable to find a breakthrough before the referee blew for halftime.
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The Super Eagles however broke the deadlock in the 56th minute of the game when Kelechi Iheanacho’s pass was scored by Umar Sadiq to give Nigeria a 1-0 lead.
Nigeria made it 2-0 in the 74th minute when Willaim Troost–Ekong scored from a rebound after Moses Simon’s effort hit the bar. The referee initially waved the goal away but it was given after a review by the video assistant referee.
Super Eagles goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho made a brilliant save towards the end of the second period to deny Guinea Bissau an opportunity to cut the deficit.
Nigeria are the only side to have won their three opening group games in AFCON and earn the maximum 9 points going into the knockout stages.
Meanwhile, the Pharaohs of Egypt join the 7 teams that have qualified for the round of 16 after beating the Falcons of Sudan by a lone goal.
