On June 11, 2024, a heart-stopping match was played between Benin and Nigeria in the fourth round of the group stage of the World Cup African qualifiers.
From the start of the match, the Nigerian team was on fire, looking to make a splash on the offensive end of the field. In the 28th minute, Chukwueze's clever cross from the right was met by Onyedika, who made a slight adjustment and fired a powerful shot into the net to give Nigeria a 1-0 lead. But Benin did not give up and quickly adjusted their strategy in search of an equalizer.
In the 37th minute, Benin's resilience finally paid off. Jordel Dossou made a breakaway in front of the goal and put a cool shot into the net to make the score 1-1, a goal that not only boosted Benin's morale, but also made the game even more tense.
Towards the end of the first half, Benin once again showed their attacking power that should not be underestimated. In the 45th+3rd minute, Olaitan took a corner kick from the right side, and Mounié fired a precise right-footed shot to put Benin back in front, 2-1. The goal not only gave Benin the lead, but also gave them a glimpse of victory.
In the second half, both teams went all out. Nigeria tried to turn the tide by stepping up their attack, but Benin's defense was like a brick wall and managed to withstand the Nigerian onslaught with excellent teamwork and resilience.
By the 85th minute, Olawoyin's cross from the right was headed off the line by a defender. Then in the 86th minute, Onuachu's header went over the crossbar. Although these two good chances could not be converted into goals, Nigeria's efforts in the second half were evident.
As the referee blew the whistle for the end of the match, Benin completed the comeback against Nigeria with a 2-1 victory in a crucial battle. Goals from Mounié and Jordel Dosu were responsible for the win. Nigeria, on the other hand, led in the first half but were unable to withstand Benin's fierce counter-attacks and left the field with regrets.
