Super Eagles defeated Elephants of Cote D'Ivoire in their second group A match of the ongoing African Cup of Nations in Cote D'Ivoire on Thursday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The Eagles edged the West African derby 1-0 courtesy of a second half penalty by William Troost Ekong to keep their campaign on course at the Alassane Quattara Stadium, Abidjan.
A cagey affair saw the Eagles on the ascendency with Victor Osimhen having the best chance to put Nigeria ahead 7 minutes into the game, but the reigning African footballer's effort went wide.
The hosts had two efforts saved by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali in the half as it ended goalless after 45 minutes and added time.
In the second half, Nigeria started with the same momentum to score and a challenge on Osimhen in the box saw the referee point to the spot after a VAR check.
William Troost Ekong stepped up to hit the ball beautifully beyond the goalkeeper to break the deadlock in the 54th minute.
The Elephants made various attempts to score, but the Eagles defense remained resolute to get all maximum points.
The win takes the Super Eagles to second spot in group A with 4 points behind Equatorial Guinea who top on goal difference.
Uche Dozie