The fourth round of the group stage of the African zone World Cup qualifiers held on June 11, 2024, between Benin and Nigeria was a stormy affair, with tension and excitement filling the stadium.
As the game kicked off, the Nigerian team attacked like a tiger. In the 28th minute, Chukwueze sent a cross in from the right and Onyedika's pacey shot pierced through the Benin defense to make it 1-0, but Benin did not let the sudden lead get to them as they quickly adjusted their strategy to turn the game around.
In a flash, in the 37th minute, Jordel Dossou made a good break upfield and put in a quick shot to level the score at 1-1. The goal not only gave Benin a boost, but also put the game into the whitewash.
Towards the end of the first half, Benin once again came out on top. In the 45th minute, Olaitan sent in a corner kick from the right side, and Mounié made it 2-1 with a powerful shot that not only gave Benin a glimpse of victory, but also brought the whole stadium to its feet.
In the second half, players from both sides fought hard as Nigeria tried to turn the tide, but Benin's defense was rock solid and managed to withstand the Nigerian onslaught with excellent teamwork and resilience.
In the 85th minute, Olawoyin's cross from the right nearly flew into the net. In the 86th minute, Onuachu's header went over the crossbar. Although neither attack was converted into a goal, Nigeria's efforts in the second half were evident.
As the referee's whistle blew, the match came to an end. The Beninese team achieved a comeback against the Nigerian team with a score of 2-1 to win this crucial battle. Goals from Moune and Jordel Dossou were responsible for the win. Nigeria, on the other hand, despite leading in the first half, could not withstand Benin's fierce counter-attack and lost.
