Nigeria’s Super Eagles rekindled the country’s hope of participating in the 2015 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations as they beat the Red Devils of Congo 2-0 in Pointe Noire.
The second half of the charged encounter produced all the drama, with Vincent Enyeama saving a penalty to keep the Eagles in the game, while returnee Uche Ikechukwu and Aaron Samuel made it count when it mattered most for Nigeria.
The Eagles now need to win against already qualified South Africa Wednesday at the Nest of Champions in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The Congolese came out strong hoping to deliver an early low blow to the Eagles.
Thierry Bifouma tested Enyeama, but the Lille of France shot-stopper was not in the mood to concede any goal.
On the other hand Uche also made his presence felt, his delicate chip was saved by Massa Chancel in goal for Congo.
Emanuel Emenike took his turn to ask questions of the Congolese defence; Chancel was on hand to thwart the move. From then on both sides battled to control the midfield and it was John Obi Mikel that dictated the pace.
Keshi introduced Sone Aluko and that ignited some urgency in the Eagles attack. In the 58th minute Mikel put Emenike through on goal, but he was brought down in the box by the Congolese keeper.
Uche did not make any mistake from the spot when he was called to duty.
Shortly afterwards Congo got a penalty of their own, but Enyeama denied Bifouma and that signaled the beginning of the end for the Red Devils.
China-based Aaron Samuel seized the day for the Eagles in the 85th minute after he connected well to a pass from Gbolahon Salami and fired to the top left corner.
And there was mayhem at the Ominisports Stadium as the fans resorted to throwing missiles into the pitch.
The game was temporarily stopped by the referee. However, by the time the game resumed the hosts had already resigned to fate.
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