Super Eagles surrender lead as Jordan force dramatic draw

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Jordan rallied from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against Nigeria on Tuesday, which impressed going forward but lost grip of the contest after a dominant first half.

The encounter, part of a four-nation tournament involving the Super Eagles, delivered end-to-end action and underlined the rising competitiveness of Asian football against established African sides.

Jordan, set to make their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026, opened the scoring in the 17th minute. Winger Mousa Tamari finished clinically after a precise assist from Noor Al Rawabdeh, handing the hosts an early advantage.

Nigeria responded with intent. Eight minutes later, Moses Simon restored parity in the 25th minute with a composed finish from inside the box.

The Super Eagles completed the turnaround before the break, as Emmanuel Fernandez, assisted by Bright Osayi-Samuel, struck in the 41st minute to give Nigeria a 2-1 halftime lead.

The second half, however, shifted in Jordan’s favour. The hosts grew into the game with improved organisation and control, dominating possession for long spells.

Their persistence paid off in the 77th minute when Mohammad Al Aldahod equalised, once again set up by Noor Al Rawabdeh, whose delivery proved decisive for the second time.

Nigeria made late substitutions, introducing Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman in a bid to regain control.

Iwobi, who was later red-carded, came close to making a decisive impact, but Jordan held firm to earn a deserved share of the spoils.