By Fawaz Adebisi
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have secured a place in the round of 16 of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations after a narrow win over Guinea Bissau on Monday.
A first-half own goal from Guinea-Bissau’s Opa Sangante handed the Nigerian side a 1-0 victory, which was enough to earn them second place in Group A.
Moses Simon sent in a low cross from the left looking for Victor Osimhen but as Sangante attempted to clear ahead of the striker, he could only steer the ball into the back of his own net in the 23rd minute.
The Super Eagles had several chances to extend their lead but were denied by the woodwork and some fine saves from Guinea-Bissau goalkeeper Jonas Mendes.
Guinea-Bissau, who needed a win to have any chance of advancing, showed some fighting spirit in the second half and came close to equalizing when Nito Gomes forced a save from Stanley Nwabali in the 52nd minute.
However, Nigeria held on to claim their second win of the tournament and join hosts Ivory Coast in the knockout stage. Guinea-Bissau finished bottom of the group with one point from three games.
Nigeria will now face the runner-up of Group B in the round of 16, while Guinea Bissau will return home after finishing third in Group A with three points.
