Sierra Leone vs Nigeria: Osimhen's brace, Iheanacho winner as Super Eagles soar above Leone Stars

Sierra Leone vs Nigeria: Osimhen's brace, Iheanacho winner as Super Eagles soar above Leone Stars

Faruq Ibrahim 19:03 - 18.06.2023

Kelechi Iheanacho came on to score the winner for Nigeria late in the game after Sierra Leone cancelled out Osimhen's brace.

Kelechi Iheanacho grabbed the winner for the Super Eagles after the Leone Stars fought back to cancel out Victor Osimhen's brace.  

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Although a draw was enough to seal qualification for AFCON 2023 heading into the match in Monrovia, Jose Peseiro's side had a healthy lead for most of the game and were in a comfortable position to seal maximum points, but they let it slip. 

However, a late Iheanacho strike helped the Nigerians roar past their gutsy rivals.  

How it happened 

Napoli ace Victor Osimhen continued his impressive scoring form this season, as the first-half was a testament to his prowess in front of goal. 

Both teams had chances to score early on, but only one had Osimhen. The former Lille man grabbed the opener in the 19th minute of the game, latching onto a headed clearance by Kenneth Omeruo before finishing over Ibrahim Sesay. 

The man of fire doubled his nation's advantage in the 33rd minute when he was picked out beautifully by Joe Aribo in the box before bundling the ball into the net. 

Mustapha Bundu pulled one back for John Kiester's side just before half-time after a devastating counter-attack.

The Super Eagles assumed dominance upon returning from the break and had numerous chances to put the tie to bed, but they were profligate, and their wastefulness soon came around to haunt them. 

The Leone stars drew level in the 84th minute of the game as Augustus Kargbo fired a low shot from the edge of the box to beat the helpless Adebayo Adeleye. 

Both teams pushed for the winner, but the day was to be for the Nigerians, as substitute Kelechi Iheanacho tapped in from close range after being set up by Zaidu Sanusi.

Nigeria left it late, and there was little to no time for the hosts to stage any sort of comeback. 

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