Super Eagles began their campaign for the 2018 FIFA World Cup on a winning note with a 2-1 win over Chipolopolo at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, Ndola? on Sunday.
Alex Iwobi broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute when he slammed a shot past Zambia goalkeeper, Kennedy Mweene to give the Super Eagles the lead.
The goal gave the team a huge confidence as they sprayed the ball comfortably to both ends of the field, leaving their opponent to chase the ball.
However, Kelechi Iheanacho extended Nigeria's lead in the 43rd minute as he calmly controlled a brilliant pass from Super Eagles captain, Mikel Obi before rounding the Mweene and two of Zambia's players, to give the team a perfect lead.
At the resumption of the second, the Zambians were allowed to find their rhythm as they attacked the Super Eagles, only to be denied by Nigeria's goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme, who was outstanding throughout the game.
The efforts of the host was later rewarded as an error from Kenneth Omeruo's failed header in the 18-yard box gave Zambia's Collins Mbesuma the chance to reduce the scoreline to 2-1. All efforts to level the score went futile as the Super Eagles defended solidly to pick the maximum points.
The Super Eagles will face Algeria on November 12 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo in what is expected to be a thrilling encounter.
credit: soccernet