Benin and Nigeria met narrowly in an up-and-down contest on June 11 in the fourth round of the group stage of the World Cup qualifiers in the African zone.
Nigeria started the game on fire and took the lead on 28 minutes when Chukwueze's clever cross was met by Onyedika who adjusted his pace and fired a shot to make the score 1-0. But Benin didn't give up as they quickly adjusted their strategy to turn the game around.
In the 37th minute, Benin's counterattack finally blossomed. Jordel Dossou made a steal in front of the net and pushed a shot into the net to make the score 1-1. The goal not only boosted Benin's morale, but also brought the game to a climax.
Towards the end of the first half, Benin started to attack again. In the 45th and 3rd minute, Olaitan sent a precise corner kick to Mounie, who hit a powerful shot to put Benin back on top, 2-1. This goal not only gave Benin hope of victory, but also changed the course of the game completely.
In the second half, players from both sides put their best foot forward as Nigeria tried to turn the tide by stepping up their attack, but Benin's defense was like a brick wall and managed to withstand Nigeria's onslaught with excellent teamwork and tenacity.
In the 85th minute, Olawoyin's cross from the right was headed off the line by a defender. In the 86th minute, Onuachu's header went over the crossbar. Although neither of the two attacking chances were converted into goals, the effort of the Nigerian team was evident.
As the referee blew the whistle to end the match, Benin turned the tables on Nigeria and won this crucial match 2-1. Goals from Moune and Jordel Dossou were the key to the win, while Nigeria, despite leading at half-time, could not withstand a strong Benin counter-attack and unfortunately swallowed the defeat.
