Nigeria faced Equatorial Guinea in their opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations Group A. The game ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw for the Super Eagles. Victor Osimhen, the African Player of the Year, scored the goal for Nigeria. The result leaves Nigeria two points behind Ivory Coast, who won their opener against Guinea Bissau. The tournament began with Ivory Coast defeating Guinea-Bissau 2-0 in the same stadium. Nigeria dominated the early possession of the match but failed to convert their chances. Equatorial Guinea managed to take the lead in the 36th minute through midfielder Ivan Salvador Edu. However, Nigeria quickly equalized with Osimhen scoring in the first half. The second half saw Equatorial Guinea’s goalkeeper, Jesus Owono, making several saves while Nigeria struggled to capitalize on their opportunities. Nigeria suffered a setback when midfielder Alhassan Yusuf had to retire due to injury. Osimhen had a great chance to put Nigeria ahead but missed the target. The draw left Nigeria with only one point, two points behind Ivory Coast. Nigeria will face Ivory Coast in their next match.