Kelechi Iheanacho scored the only goal as the Super Eagles of Nigeria recorded a 1-0 victory over Egypt at the Roumdé Adjia Stadium, Garoua, in the ongoing TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, their first in 32 years.
The Egyptians went into the fixture as favourite but a determined Nigerian side pressed high and deservedly went ahead in the 30th minute.
Iheanacho was quick enough to react to Sanusi Zaidu’s cross to bury 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.
Iheanacho’s performance was a huge relief for interim coach, Austin Equavoen who is missing the services of Victor Osimhen, Odion Ighalo and Emmanuel Dennis.
Nigeria’s last victory over the Pharoahs in any competitive fixture was in the Nations Cup in Algeria in 1990.
With the victory, the three-times African Champions will hope to win the group and gain a favourable draw in the last 16.
Nigeria will face Sudan in Group D on Saturday by 4pm while Egypt take on Guinea-Bissau by 6pm.
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