Stand -in captain, Williams Troost Ekong converted a 54th minute penalty to give the Super Eagles of Nigeria the lead in a tension soaked group A encounter against the host, Elephants of Cote D’Ivoire.
After playing out a drab 0-0 draw in the first half, the Super Eagles posted an improved performance in the second half and it immediately produced a goal.
The Nigerian side had caught their opponent on the counter and made effort to score when Victor Osimhen was fouled in the 18 yard box.
Center referee, Mustapha Ghorbal from Algeria had allowed play to continue, but Video Assistant Referees (VAR) called him to re-check.
After Checking, Ghorbal was convinced Osimhen was fouled and he pointed to the spot.
All efforts by the Nigerian side to add to the tally proved abortive, while the Ivorians quest to equalize also didn’t materialize.
The result meant the Super Eagles are second on the group A log, trailing leaders Equatorial Guinea on goal difference, While the Ivorians are lying on third position with just three points.
Super Eagles will play bottom placed Guinea Bissau on the 21st of January at the