Nigeria Beat Mozambique Despite Agbim Howlers

Super Eagles endured two howlers from Chigozie Agbim to defeat Mozambique 4-2 in a thrilling African Nations Championship group A match played on Wednesday night in Cape Town.

Earlier in the day, Bafana Bafana were held to a one-all draw by Eagles of Mali, who defeated Super Eagles 2-1 on Sunday.

The opening exchanges saw the attackers having a festive time in front of goal.

Mambas drew the first blood in the 10th minute through a long range shot by captain Dario Khan from 45-metre to goal.

His opposite skipper Agbim ought to have done better.

Super Eagles replied immediately as a long ball was flicked on by Warri Wolves defender Azubuike Egwuekwe, which fell to free scoring Enyimba forward Ifeanyi Ede, who had no hesitation sending a low shot to gift the AFCON champions the equaliser.

Encouraged by the response, Kano Pillars attacking midfielder Rabiu Ali, who was slotted to the playmaker’s role sent an unstoppable drive to give the West Africans the advantage.

Agbim will then deny the Mambas with his outstretched leg on 15 minutes.

He was again at fault for the equaliser with another howler which Diogo capitalised on.

Super Eagles restored their lead when Ejike Uzoenyi’s drive was held by a Mozambique defender and Rabiu Ali slotted from the penalty spot.

In the 74th minute, Salami was denied his second goal of the competition after a Mozambique defender cleared his goal-bound effort from just outside the goal line.

With the game at the home stretch, Stephen Keshi had to sacrifice Salami for the skillful Barnabas Imenger Jnr who made an instant impression with the winner in the 89th minute.

Enugu Rangers winger, Ejike Uzoenyi was named man-of-the-match for his all round display.

The group’s last round of matches would be played on Sunday with Super Eagles up against South Africa, while Mali have whipping boys, Mozambique to contend with.

Photo Credit : fifa.com