The climax of the 4th round of the group stage of the World Cup African qualifiers on June 11th saw Benin and Nigeria battling it out like a clash of the sparks, and it was too intense for words.
The drums of war were beating and the Nigerians were like tigers. In the 28th minute, Chukwueze crossed the ball from the right and Onyedika fired a powerful shot through the opponent's goal to make the score 1-0, the first goal for Nigeria. But Benin didn't give up, they quickly adjusted their strategy like fighters and tried to turn things around.
The turnaround came in the 37th minute. Jordel Dossou made no mistake with a shot after a breakaway and the ball went into the net to make the score 1-1, a goal that was a shot in the arm that boosted Benin's morale and sent the match into a whitewash.
Towards the end of the first half, Benin added to their lead. In the 45th+3rd minute, Olaitan sent in a precise corner kick, which Moune finished perfectly with his right foot to put Benin back in front, 2-1.The goal not only put them ahead, but also lightened the way to victory.
In the second half, both teams went all out. Nigeria tried to step up their attack, but Benin's defense was dripping with energy and managed to withstand the Nigerian onslaught with excellent teamwork and tenacity.
In the 85th minute, Olawoyin's cross from the right went narrowly wide of the defender's head and into his own goal. In the 86th minute, Onuachu's header went over the crossbar. Despite these two unsuccessful attempts, the effort of the Nigerian team was evident.
The match came to an end as the referee blew the final whistle. Benin made a comeback to beat Nigeria 2-1 and win a crucial battle. Goals from Moune and Jordel Dossou were the key to their win. Nigeria, on the other hand, led for a while but could not withstand the strong counter-attacks of Benin and eventually lost.
