Nigeria and Egypt miss their entry into the competition… What to remember from Sunday’s matches

The second day of the African Cup of Nations, Sunday January 14, did not offer the favorites results that matched their ambitions. Following the success in the opening match of the Ivorian host (2-0) against Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria and Egypt failed to win. Here is what you should remember from the day in Ivory Coast.

Nigeria-Equatorial Guinea: Osimhen stalls against a great Owono

For its entry into the running, Nigeria was held in check by Equatorial Guinea (1-1) at the Alassane Outtara Olympic stadium in Abidjan. A surprising result given the ultra-domination of Victor Osimhen’s teammates, who repeatedly came up against the heroic Jesus Owono, the Equatoguinean goalkeeper. Juan Micha’s men even managed to open the score against the run of play, with a powerful strike from the penalty spot by Iban Salvador (36th), before Osimhen equalized from the kick-off of a header after a good cross from Ademola Lookman (38th). A point from the draw which gives the Equato-Guineans hopes of a place in the eighth.

Egypt-Mozambique: Salah as savior of the draw

Egypt, listed among the favorites of the competition, also settled for a 2-2 draw against Mozambique at the stadium Félix Houphouët-Boigny from Abidjan, thanks to a saving penalty from Mohamed Salah at the very end of the match (90+7th). The Pharaons captain opened the way by signing a somewhat risky assist for Mohamed (3rd). Finalist of CAN 2022, the Pharaohs dominated the game in all aspects, but were punished after returning from the locker room. By Witiness Quembo first, author of a beautiful header on a cross from Domingos Macandza (55th), then by Clésio Bauque, entered at the break and author of a solo rush concluded with a cross strike (58th). But Macandza, for a foul on Mostafa Mohamed in the area, allowed Egypt to score a draw at the last minute.