Iheanacho shines as Nigeria beat Liberia in World Cup qualifying opener

Kelechi Iheanacho was the hero as the Super Eagles of Nigeria beat Liberia 2-0 in matchday one of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The Gernot Rohr boys ensured that the country’s 17-year-old unbeaten run record against the Lone Stars was maintained with the victory on Friday at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.

With the Central African Republic and Cape Verde Islands playing a 1-1 draw earlier, the Super Eagles and Liberia knew a win will boost morale in group C.

But it was the Super Eagles who won on a terrible pitch in Lagos.

Chances were created by Nigeria with Victor Osimhen wasteful upfront.

The Napoli star wasn’t clinical with the first opportunity of the game. He failed to trouble Ashley Williams early in the match.

Iheanacho then drew the curtain-raiser for the Super Eagles through an excellent effort in the 22nd minute. The former Golden Eaglets’ lad also increased the lead before halftime.

Early in the second half, Osimhen missed with Ashley at his mercy. He was again denied by the Liberian keeper from close range.

It wasn’t a surprise when Gernot Rohr hauled off the former Sporting Charleroi striker for Paul Onuachu.

The highlight of the game was also the 99th international cap earned by Ahmed Musa.

Super Eagles go top of group C with three points ahead of Cape Verde and Central African Republic (CAR), who have a point apiece.

Nigeria will continue its campaign against Cape Verde Islands on September 7. Liberia, on the other hand, will play host to CAR on Monday.

Photo credit: Poojamedia