AFCON 2019: Super Eagles tame Swallows of Burundi in Group B opener

Odion Ighalo celebrating with team mates after scoring against Burundi

By Eyo Kelvin 
Substitute Odion Ighalo open scoring for Nigeria to tame resilient Swallow of Burundi 1-0 in AFCON group B opener at the Alexandria Stadium, Egypt.

Burundi produced a well tactical performance to hit up the tempo for Nigeria as they continued to search for goals to break the deadlock and walls of Swallows.

Chukwueze dribbles pass four Burundi defenders in search of the breakthrough, but his efforts at goal went inches pass the top far corner of the goal post.

Nigeria would have been two to three goals up in the first half of the encounter but failed to utilise plethora of goal scoring opportunities at their beck and call.

Mikel Obi fouled by Burundi player. 

Saido Berahino send in a rocket shot from 35 yards outside the box to test resting Daniel Akpeyi abilities in goal.

Odion Ighalo 77th minutes strick was enough for the Super Eagles to claim maximum victory over stubborn Swallows from Ola Aina assist beating Jonathan Nahimana into the far right corner.

The duo of Alex Iwobi and Chukwueze continued their impressive performance to torment the defensive line of Burundi, pushing for an extension but failed to produce result.

Awaziem was well placed to block a shot before taking a boot to his head moments later as Burundi looking to level from a corner deep into stoppage time.

The Super Eagles will now face Guinea in their next group B game on Wednesday while Burundi will lock horns with Madagascar