Benin 1-1 Super Eagles: Nigerians praise Osimhen for late goal to snatch draw

On Thursday, November 14, 2025, the Nigerian Super Eagles and the Benin Republic Cheetahs battled to a 1-1 draw away in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.

Since a home venue in the Benin Republic was not approved by the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF), the game was played at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan.

The Nigerian Super Eagles were already qualified for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco before kick-off.

This came after Rwanda lost the other group game in Kigali to Libya 1-0.

In the 16th minute, Mohamed Tijani scored after Junior Olaitan had passed the ball to him, giving the Gernot Rohr-led team the lead.

Despite controlling possession, the Super Eagles were behind after one goal in the first half.

At halftime, coach Augustine Eguavoen introduced Raphael Onyedika, Moses Simon, and Victor Boniface.

The Super Eagles had a hard time getting past the Benin defense until Simon's ball to Victor Osimhen in the 81st minute and both teams settled for a draw.

After the game, Nigerians took to social media to give their thoughts on the draw with Benin Republic.

Before his equalizer, Osimhen missed a massive chance to score for Nigeria.

There was initial criticism for not taking the chance however was praised for his late heroics.

The goal also meant Osimhen now has 23 goals for the Nigerian senior national team.

He is tied for second place with the great Segun Odegbami in the Super Eagles' all-time top scorers.

See what Nigerians are saying about Osimhen below