Nigeria defeated Guinea-Bissau 1-0 on Monday thanks to an own goal from Opa Sangante in the first half, securing the Super Eagles’ spot in the Africa Cup of Nations round of 16.
In the 36th minute, Sangante fiercely headed a cross from Moses Simon into his own net after feeling obligated to step in with Victor Osimhen skulking behind him.
With seven points from their 4-0 thrashing of the hosts Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea has a superior goal differential than the Super Eagles, who now qualify in second place in Group A.
Following their initial 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria has been effective, if not spectacular, defeating the Ivorians 1-0 with to a penalty kick from William Troost-Ekong.
Against the runners-up in Group C, Senegal, Guinea, or Cameroon, Jose Peseiro’s team will now remain in Abidjan for a last-16 match on Saturday at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium.
Nigeria should have extended their lead after the half, but their dominance had been sterile prior to the goal.
In the second half, goals by African player of the year Osimhen and substitute Zaidu Sanusi were disallowed for offside; Calvin Bassey’s penalty claim was denied; and Ola Aina missed a good opportunity.
Guinea-Bissau, who finished with three losses and were already eliminated before this encounter, had Franculino Dju’s goal disallowed at the other end.
Despite being unexpected winners in their March qualification match against Nigeria, they have yet to secure a victory in their 12 matches during their four Cup of Nations appearances.
