Late Jordan Equalizer Denies Super Eagles Victory in Turkey

Late Jordan Equalizer Denies Super Eagles Victory in Turkey

By Niyi Busari 

Super Eagles fought back from an early deficit to secure a 2–2 draw against Jordan in an international friendly played on Tuesday, March 31 in Turkey, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Despite making six changes to the starting line-up from their previous outing against Iran, Nigeria began brightly and looked intent on asserting control early in the contest. However, it was Jordan—already qualified for the FIFA World Cup—who struck first, with Mousa Al-Taamari opening the scoring in the 17th minute.

Nigeria responded quickly and believed they had equalised shortly after, only for the effort to be ruled out. Their persistence paid off in the 24th minute when stand-in captain Moses Simon found the back of the net to restore parity.

Jordan threatened again as the first half progressed, coming close to regaining the lead in the 38th minute, but failed to convert their chance. The Super Eagles capitalised on that reprieve and went ahead just before the break, as Emmanuel Fernandez reacted quickest to a loose ball to calmly finish and give Nigeria a 2–1 lead at half-time.

In the second half, Nigeria sought to extend their advantage, but Jordan remained competitive and gradually worked their way back into the game. Their efforts were rewarded in the 77th minute when Mohammed Al-Daoud scored the equaliser to ensure the match ended in a 2–2 draw.

The result sees Nigeria maintain their unbeaten run in the friendly series, while Jordan once again demonstrated resilience against strong opposition.