Paul Onuachu’s first-half strike was enough to earn the Super Eagles a 1-0 win over Egypt in an international friendly.
It took only eight seconds for the Denmark-based forward to score his first goal for Nigeria on his first start in the match played on Tuesday at Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.
Super Eagles continued to enjoy the lion’s share of possession and nearly doubled their advantage in the 14th minute but Iwobi fired well wide of the mark from inside the area.
The visitors nearly drew level in the 25th minute when Salah Mohsen showed a great turn of pace to lose Mostapha Mohammed, before forcing Akpeyi into a save at the near post.
Super Eagles enjoyed more of the ball as the half went on, as the like of Ndidi, Henry and Paul linked up on a few occasions, although they failed to test Mahmoud Gennesh after scoring the opener.
Egypt looked dangerous on the counter and this was on display when Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny forced Akpeyi into a save at his near post after out-pacing experienced defender Shehu midway through the first stanza.
The Nigerians nearly doubled their advantage 10 minutes into the second half but Gennesh was well-positioned to deal with Iwobi’s effort from a tight angle after some good build-up play.
Akpeyi was called upon in the 64th minute as the Super Eagles goalkeeper did well to keep out Hamed’s stinging effort from a tight angle, as the hosts piled on the pressure.
The Pharaohs continued to push for an equalizer and went close in the 71st minute when Islam Gaber teed up Kouka in the box, but the midfielder sliced his effort just wide of the target.
Rohrh looked to be content with the score and introduced several players to shut up shop for the final stages of the second half.
Egypt went even closer in the 77th minute when Salah Mohsenfound some space 25-yards out but his effort sailed inches wide of the post, with Akpeyi scrambling.
Rohr’s men managed to see off a late surge from the home side to claim the win at the Stephen Keshi Stadium.
