On June 11, 2024, as the group stage of the World Cup African qualifiers heated up, Benin and Nigeria faced off in a nail-biting fourth-round clash.
With the drums of war beating, the Nigerian team attacked vigorously. In the 28th minute, Chukwueze crossed the ball from the right and Onyedika quickly adjusted his position and fired a powerful shot to make the score 1-0 and give Nigeria the lead. However, Benin did not give up as they quickly adjusted their strategy to turn the game around.
In the 37th minute, Benin finally waited for a turnaround. Jordel Dossou made a successful tackle in front of the goal and pushed an unstoppable shot to equalize the score at 1-1. This goal not only boosted Benin's morale, but also made the game even more dramatic.
In stoppage time of the first half, Benin once again went on the offensive. In the 45th+3rd minute, Olaitan's corner kick from the right side was met by a pinpoint shot from Mounié to bring the score back to 2-1.This goal not only gave Benin the lead, but also gave them a glimpse of victory.
In the second half, both players went all out. Nigeria tried to turn the tide by stepping up their attack, but Benin's defense was rock solid and they managed to withstand the onslaught of the Nigerian team with excellent teamwork and resilience.
In the 85th minute, Olawoyin crossed the ball from the right side of the field and the ball was tipped off the line by a defender. Immediately after that, Onuachu's header went over the crossbar in the 86th minute. Although these two attacking chances could not be converted into goals, Nigeria's efforts in the second half were evident.
As the referee's final whistle blew, the match came to an end. The Beninese team made a comeback with a 2-1 victory over the Nigerian team to win this crucial battle. Goals from Moune and Jordel Dossou were responsible for the win. Despite leading in the first half, the Nigerian team could not withstand the Beninese counter-attack and lost.
