Two first half goals ensured the Super Eagles of Nigeria survived a second half spell of pressure from Zambia to win 2-1 and start their World Cup 2018 qualifiers on a strong note.
Arsenal highly rated 20 year old Alex Iwobi gave Nigeria the lead with a smart finish from inside the Zambians box from a loose clearance. Displaying smart technique in putting power, precision and pace in his effort to powerfully beat Kennedy Mweene in goal for Zambia.
Minutes before the half time break. Kelechi iheanacho doubled the lead for Nigeria rounding the goalkepper after a smart interchange of passes between Mikel Obi and Brown Ideye.
Ideye laid the ball perfectly for the recently turned 20 year old Manchester City forward, who kept his calm to round the goalkepper before slotting home despite three Zambian defenders on the line.
Collins Mbesuma profited from a poor piece of defending from Kenneth Omeruo to pull a goal back for the home side in the second half but despite a sustained spell of pressure. Nigeria hanged on to claim an all important three points away in Ndola.
Their next game will be against Algeria, who are in action in the evening group game against Cameroun.
credit: owngoalnigeria