AFCON 2021: Liverpool’s Salah helpless as Iheanacho’s brilliant strike seals Nigeria’s win over Egypt

A goal from Kelechi Iheanacho was all Nigeria needed to begin their chase for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title on a winning note in Group D to end Egypt’s record of not having lost in their group game in the tournament in the past 20 years, BSNSports.com.ng reports. Nigeria went into the competition with doubts surrounding the team due to a far from ideal preparation. But the poor preparation did not have an effect on the team as they outclassed the seven-time AFCON kings from start to finish. Before now, Egypt’s last defeat in the group phase dates back to the 2004 tournament when they lost 2-1 against Algeria. This is the ninth encounter between Nigeria and Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria hold the upper hand with four wins to Egypt’s two, although their last encounter before today’s game in 2010 went to the Pharaohs (3-1 in the group phase). Iheanacho put the Eagles ahead at the half hour mark with a superb finish after a great move by Moses Simon. Overall the Eagles had five attempts at goal with just one going the Pharaoh's way in the first half. Salah had been anonymous, with just 14 touches in the first half, the fewest among Egypt players. But Maduka Okoye made a fine save to preserve Nigeria’s lead. With time running out, Eguavoen made a couple of changes which include Chidera Ejuke for Samuel Chukwueze. Ejuke had two big chances to put the game beyond doubt, but he fired straight at the keeper on the two occasions. Nonetheless, the misses did not matter as Nigeria held on for a famous win. The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to their second game in Group D, which is against Sudan on Saturday.