The Red Devils of Congo Brazzaville have defeated the Nigerian Super Eagles to clinch the maximum three points in a first leg match of the African Cup of Nations qualifier match played at the UJ Esuene Stadium Calabar.
The African champions could not maintain the lead against the Congolese side Afe Ambrose netted-in the first goal of the game in the 14th minute of play in the Saturday’s match.
However, the Red Devils came back three minutes later with an equaliser from Prince Oniangue at the 17th minute.
Ahmed Musa could have doubled the lead in the 26th minute, as Oboabona played in the winger, who was through on goal but missed the chance.
It got better for the visitors just before the half-time break, as Thiery Bifouma played a neat one-two with Litingu, before firing past Austin Ejide.
Back to the field with a 1-2 deficit, the Super Eagles tried to level up, but a 53rd-minute goal by Thiery Bifouma set the visitors further ahead of the Eagles with a hope of getting the three points in the game that many Nigerians had expressed optimism of winning.
The African champions continued to impress and Eddy Onazi came close to reducing the lead three minutes later but the midfielder’s long range effort flew inches wide of the upright woodwork.
The home side should have pulled one back in the 83rd minute but Igiebor blasted over from 12-yards out with only Massa to beat.
However, they did reduce the deficit in the 89th minute as substitute Gbolahan Salami fired home from inside the six-yard box.
2-3 it ended and it was enough for Congo Brazzaville to take the day. It was an impressive victory for them as they go level on three points with South Africa.