On June 11, 2024, a passionate matchup between Benin and Nigeria took place in the 4th round of the World Cup African qualifying group stage.
The drums of war were beating and Nigeria was on the attack. In the 28th minute, Chukwueze's clever cross was coolly pumped in by Onyedika to make the score 1-0 in an instant and put Nigeria in the lead. But Benin did not give up as they adjusted their strategy to try and turn the game around.
In the 37th minute, Benin took a turn for the better. Jordel Dossou made it 1-1 when he broke the ball in front of the goal and fired in a goal that not only boosted Benin's morale, but also made the game even more exciting.
In the extra time of the first half, Benin came back to the game. In the 45th and 3rd minute, Olaitan sent in a precise corner kick and Moune hit a beautiful shot to bring the score back to 2-1. This goal not only gave Benin hope of victory, but also marked the turning point of the game.
In the second half, both players went all out. The Nigerian team wanted to step up their attack, but the Beninese team defended like a barrel and managed to withstand the Nigerian onslaught with excellent teamwork and resilience.
In the 85th minute, Olawo's cross from the right was headed away by a defender. In the 86th minute, Onuachu's header went over the crossbar. Although these two attacking chances could not be converted into goals, Nigeria's efforts in the second half were evident.
The match came to an end as the referee's final whistle blew. Benin came back to win this crucial battle against Nigeria with a 2-1 victory. Goals from Moune and Jordel Dossou were key to the team's victory. Nigeria, on the other hand, led in the first half but eventually failed to withstand Benin's counter-attack and lost.
