Segun Akanni, Toronto, Canada A spot kick from Kelechi Iheanacho was all the Super Eagles needed to force the Teranga Lions of Senegal to a one-all draw at The Hive ground in London on Thursday.
The Senegalese broke the deadlock through Moussa Sow in the 54th minute before the Eagles rallied for an equalizer late in the second half.
Skipper Ogenyi Onazi was forced off after 27 minutes of play.
The Turkey-based midfielder landed awkwardly and was replaced by John Ogu, while Elderson Echiejile took over the captainship for Nigeria.
The Teranga Lions almost broke the deadlock in the 30th minute through Mbemgue, but his effort was saved by Akpeyi.
Moments later, a fabulous pass and move orchestrated by Ogu and Ndidi was wasted by Musa.
Again, Ogu and Ndidi stringed passes to free Iheanacho, but the City striker dragged his effort off target.
Iheanacho missed another chance to shoot Nigeria ahead as the half time approached, but the striker fluffed the opportunity as the first half ended goalless.
Idrissa Gueye wasted a good chance to double Senegal’s lead as he shot a left-footed effort wide.
In the 57th minute, Etebo came on for Iwobi, while Moses Simon made way for Isaac Success.
Astra Vein striker, Olanrewaju Kayode, also won his first national team cap.
The pacy forward replaced Musa in the 75th minute.
Iheanacho saved the day for the Nigerian side as he stepped up to convert a spot kick in the 82nd minute of the encounter.
