The Super Eagles of Nigeria qualified for the 2023 African Cup of Nations.
The three-time African champions picked the ticket after defeating Sierra Leone 3–2 at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Monrovia, Liberia, on Sunday with one game to spare.
Sierra Leone nearly denied the Super Eagles a win and three points, but Kelechi Iheanacho, who came off the bench, scored in the 94th minute to give the Jose Peseiro-led team all three points and qualification for their 20th Africa Cup of Nations Cup competition.
The Leone Stars appeared to have pulled off another surprise comeback after Victor Osimhen’s two first-half goals were cancelled out by Mustapha Bundu’s strike in the 42nd minute and Augustus Kargbo’s equaliser in the 84th minute, but Iheanacho gave the Eagles the win at the death to send Nigeria top of Group A with 12 points.
Even before the Leone Stars began their comeback, the Super Eagles should have been home and dry. In the first half, Samuel Chukwueze squandered two golden chances, while Moses Simon could have done better with the opportunity offered by Osimhen.
Coach Peseiro chose Israel-based Adebayo Adeleye to replace the suspended Francis Uzoho, while Semi Ajayi started ahead of William Troost-Ekong.
