On June 11, 2024, Benin and Nigeria faced off in a suspenseful match in the fourth round of the World Cup African qualifying group stage.
With the drums of war beating, Nigeria took the lead with a tidal wave of attacking postures. In the 28th minute, Chukwueze's clever cross from the right was followed by a powerful shot from Onyedika to give Nigeria a 1-0 lead and break the deadlock in the match. But Benin did not back down as they quickly adjusted their strategy to try and turn the game around.
In the 37th minute, Benin's persistence paid off. Jordel Dossou made a breakaway and fired home to make it 1-1, a goal that not only boosted Benin's morale, but also made the game even more exciting.
In the final moments of the first half extra time, Benin once again went on the offensive. In the 45th+3rd minute, Olaitan sent in a corner kick from the right side, and Mounié broke through again with a pinpoint shot to put Benin back on top, 2-1, with victory in sight.
In the second half, both players went all out. The Nigerian team tried to turn the tide by intensifying their attack, however, the Beninese team defended stoutly and managed to withstand the Nigerian onslaught with excellent teamwork and tenacious fighting spirit.
In the 85th minute, Olawoyin crossed the ball from the right and the ball was cleverly tipped over the line by a defender. In the 86th minute, Onuachu's header went over the crossbar. These two chances were not converted into goals, but they were indicative of the positive efforts of the Nigerian team in the second half.
Eventually, the match came to an end as the referee's whistle blew. Benin won this crucial battle with a 2-1 comeback win over Nigeria. Goals from Moune and Jordel Dossou were responsible for the team's win. Nigeria, on the other hand, led in the first half but eventually failed to withstand Benin's fierce counter-attacks and lost.
