Balogun, Osimhen the heroes as the Super Eagles redeem their reputation with a win against CAR

The Rangers defender put his poor performance on Thursday behind him to help Nigeria avenge their defeat against the Central African Republic 

Leon Balogun and Victor Osimhen were both on target as the Super Eagles gained their pound of flesh against CAR with a 2-0 win in their 2022 World Cup qualifier in Douala.

The Super Eagles had suffered a shock home defeat in the first leg of the encounter, but there was no repeat of that result at the Japoma Stadium in Douala, Cameroon, on Sunday.

Gernot Rohr’s men started the clash on the front foot, dictating the play right from the start. But despite controlling possession, they failed to create any real chance.

However, it all changed in the 29th minute when Leon Balogun, who was poor in the first leg, fired home a perfect volley from a Chidozie Awaziem cross.

It was the goal the three-time African champions needed following a positive start. The Super Eagles continued to dominate possession, and it was only a matter of time before they doubled their advantage.

The second goal came just before halftime as Osimhen tapped home from close range following a brilliant low cross from William Troost-Ekong.

Les Fauves resumed the second half, trying to find their way back into the game, but it was the Super Eagles that got close to scoring, with Osimhen guilty of missing a clear chance, while Chidera Ejuke was denied by the goalkeeper.

Ejuke had come on for Ahmed Musa, who finally earned his 100th official international cap- the third Nigerian to do so after Joseph Yobo and Vincent Enyeama.

But while 100 appearances is a big achievement, the result is the most important thing for the ex-CSKA Moscow man. 

With the win, the Super Eagles have now garnered nine points from four games ahead of the final round of matches next month.