THE Super Eagles laboured to a 2-0 win over Liberia on Saturday evening in Tangier, Morocco to stay on course in their quest for a Qatar 2022 World Cup ticket.
The disjointed Nigerian side needed two penalties in either half to see off the impressive Lone Star.
Victor Osimhen and Ahmed Musa expertly dispatched the spot kicks to keep Nigeria on top of the African qualifying Group C table.
Napoli striker Osimhen, who spent most of the match isolated upfront, converted in the 15th minute after his strike partner Kelechi Iheanacho was tripped by Liberia goalkeeper Wynney De Souza.
The Super Eagles struggled to put any form of game plan together in their 3-5-2 formation after taking the lead, their long balls not working out as Osimhen was often left without support.
Left wing-back Jamilu Collins thought he had extended the Super Eagles’ lead but his goal was ruled out for offside, while Osimhen blasted over from close range as the first half ended 1-0.
The second half was a mess of misplaced passes and moves that went nowhere from the Super Eagles, while the more composed Lone Star lacked cutting edge in the final third.
The match was finally put to bed in added time when substitute Musa scored the second penalty after De Souza brought down Osimhen.
In the group’s other game on Saturday night, Cape Verde came from behind to beat Central African Republic 2-1 in Mindelo.
Visitors Central African Republic scored first in the 11th minute through Isaac Ngoma but two second-half strikers Julio Tavares and Stopira handed Cape Verde a crucial win.
With Saturday’s results, Group C will go right down to the wire to determine the winners that will proceed to the playoffs.
Nigeria are on top with 12 points, followed by Cape Verde on 10 points ahead of the two sides’ clash in Lagos on Tuesday.
While the Super Eagles need only a draw at the Teslim Balogun Stadium to advance, Cape Verde must win to go through to the playoffs.
