Heartbreak! - Nwabali blunder ends Super Eagles' 5-month clean sheet record

Augustine Eguaveon's Super Eagles conceded for the first time in five matches no thanks to Stanley Nwabali's error.

Heartbreak! - Nwabali blunder ends Super Eagles' 5-month clean sheet record

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 08:58 - 15.11.2024

Nigeria's Super Eagles conceded for the first time under Augustine Eguavoen's third stint as coach.

Nigeria's Super Eagles faced heartbreak as they conceded their first goal under coach Augustine Eguavoen in his third stint, ending a remarkable clean sheet record. 

The team had gone four matches without conceding, but this streak came to an abrupt halt during their AFCON 2025 qualifying match against Benin Republic on Thursday night.

The Super Eagles entered the match with high hopes, having maintained an impeccable defensive record. 

However, against the run of play, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali committed a critical error that allowed Benin to take a shock lead. 

Super Eagles head coach Augustine Eguavoen. || X
Super Eagles head coach Augustine Eguavoen. || X

A corner kick led to a cross that slipped under Nwabali's legs, marking the first goal Nigeria had conceded since they let in two against Benin back in June under former manager Finidi George.

Eguavoen's side had been riding high on four consecutive clean sheets, showcasing a solid defensive performance throughout the qualifiers.

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali committed an error against Benin | @Nwabalibobo on X

But the unexpected slip-up by Nwabali was particularly disappointing for the team and its supporters, as they had built momentum heading into this crucial match.

Despite the setback, Nigeria managed to equalise later in the game, thanks to a goal from history maker, Victor Osimhen, who continues to shine as a key player for the Super Eagles. 

Victor Osimhen celebrates his 23rd goal for Nigeria Super Eagles. (Photo Credit: Osimhen/IG)

The draw means Nigeria, who sealed a ticket to the tournament even before kick off, will finish the AFCON qualifying campaign at the top of Group D as winners.

Ahead of preparations for their final qualifying match against Rwanda, Eguavoen will be looking to rectify the defensive lapses that led to this goal and ensure that his team can regain their stronghold ahead of the tournament in Morocco. 

Super Eagles are through to the AFCON2025 as group winners. || Imago

The Super Eagles' resilience will be tested by the Amavubi, who still stand a chance to join Nigeria from Group D if they could shock the Eagles in Uyo and Benin fall in Libya. 

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