The Super Eagles were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against Poland on Wednesday in an international friendly at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw, in a match that swung dramatically in the closing minutes.
Nigeria made a bright start to the encounter, pressing high and showing attacking intent through Terem Moffi and Akor Adams.
Their early pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when Moffi found the breakthrough after a VAR check confirmed the goal, giving the visitors a deserved lead after a dominant spell of possession.
Poland responded gradually, with Robert Lewandowski and Piotr Zieliński attempting to unlock Nigeria’s defensive structure.
However, the Eric Chelle-led side remained compact and disciplined, with Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka controlling midfield battles effectively for long spells.
The hosts eventually drew level just before the break. In the 45th minute, Kacper Potulski reacted quickest inside the box following a scramble to poke home the equaliser, sending both sides into half-time locked at 1-1 after a competitive first half.
After the restart, both teams made several changes in search of fresh energy and attacking inspiration.
Nigeria introduced new legs including Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, while Poland also adjusted their structure to increase pressure in the final third.
The decisive moment initially looked to have gone Nigeria’s way in the 77th minute when they were awarded a penalty after a VAR review confirmed a foul in the box.
Paul Onuachu stepped up with confidence and converted calmly to restore Nigeria’s lead at 2-1.
However, Poland refused to back down and continued to push forward in the closing stages.
Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Przemysław Wiśniewski struck in the fifth minute of stoppage time to rescue a dramatic equaliser for the home side.
The late goal ensured the contest ended 2-2 after a pulsating finish, denying the Super Eagles what had looked like a hard-earned victory.
Nigeria will now turn their attention to their final friendly fixture against Portugal next Wednesday.
Wale Adejumo
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