AFCON: Super Eagles sink Pharaohs with Kelechi’s goal

The Super Eagles of Nigeria, on Tuesday, defeated the Pharaohs of Egypt with a lone goal by Kelechi Iheanacho.

Iheanacho put the Super Eagles forward with a superb strike in the 30th minute of the first half.

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The first match in Droup D of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon was played at the Roumde Adjia, Garoua.

The Leicester City striker opened the scoring in the 30th minute, burying a stunning half-volley on the turn.

Nigeria dominated throughout, with Egypt keeper Mohamed El Shenawy tipping a Taiwo Awoniyi header on to the bar and twice denying Chidera Ejuke.

The Pharaohs offered little in response after falling behind in Garoua.

The Foxes man impressed throughout the first half, feeding in Awoniyi who saw a tame effort saved shortly before the break.

Nigeria, three-time African champions, continued to push for a second after half-time with El Shenawy twice keeping out substitute Chidera Ejuke in the closing stages.

Egypt were lacklustre for much of the proceedings, managing just one shot in the opening 70 minutes.

Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, who has reaffirmed his desire to stay at Anfield, repeatedly found himself isolated up front as Nigeria dictated the match’s tempo.

The forward was played through by substitute Ahmed Sayed with 20 minutes remaining but his mishit shot was saved by the legs of Nigeria keeper Maduka Okoye.

Nigeria will face Sudan in Group D on Saturday (16:00 GMT), while Egypt take on Guinea-Bissau (19:00 GMT).