Own Goal Saves Nigeria from Humiliating Defeat in Thrilling Friendly Match Against Saudi Arabia.
In an exhilarating international friendly match, the Super Eagles of Nigeria managed to salvage a 2-2 draw against Saudi Arabia, preventing what could have been a humiliating defeat. The contest served as a valuable opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Match Stats: Saudi Arabia vs Nigeria
The match statistics highlight the intensity of the game, with Nigeria showcasing its dominance in several aspects:
- Shots: Saudi Arabia 4, Nigeria 15
- Shots on Target: Saudi Arabia 3, Nigeria 5
- Possession: Saudi Arabia 53%, Nigeria 47%
- Passes: Saudi Arabia 513, Nigeria 444
- Pass Accuracy: Saudi Arabia 83%, Nigeria 83%
- Fouls: Saudi Arabia 16, Nigeria 12
- Yellow Cards: Saudi Arabia 2, Nigeria 1
- Red Cards: None
- Offsides: Saudi Arabia 1, Nigeria 6
- Corners: Saudi Arabia 2, Nigeria 4
Key Moments:
The game witnessed several critical moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats:
- 90’+10′ Goal: Saudi Arabia 2, Nigeria 2. Mohamed Kanno (Saudi Arabia) secured a dramatic equalizer from a free kick with a right-footed shot.
- 81′ Goal: Saudi Arabia 1, Nigeria 2. Kelechi Iheanacho (Nigeria) displayed his skill with a left-footed shot from outside the box, giving Nigeria the lead.
- 73′ Own Goal: Abdulelah Al Amri (Saudi Arabia) inadvertently found the net, leveling the score at 1-1.
- 66′ Substitution: Nigeria. Moses Simon replaced Ademola Lookman, aiming to bolster the Nigerian attack.
- 60′ Goal: Saudi Arabia 1, Nigeria 0. Salman Al Faraj (Saudi Arabia) capitalized on a free kick opportunity, sending a left-footed shot into the top left corner.
The Thrilling Encounter:
The match was filled with excitement, with both teams displaying their prowess on the field. Saudi Arabia’s early goal put them in the lead, but Nigeria swiftly responded, and the match remained fiercely contested until the final whistle.
Looking Ahead:
As Nigeria and Saudi Arabia look forward to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the 2023 AFCON, this thrilling friendly match served as a crucial test for both teams. It showcased the Super Eagles’ resilience and ability to recover from adversity, ensuring that they won’t be taken lightly in the upcoming competitive assignments.
