Kelechi Iheanacho’s goal comfortably saw Nigeria beating seven-time champions Egypt in their Africa Cup of Nations Group D opener in Cameroon.
The Leicester City striker opened the scoring in the 30th minute, burying a stunning half-volley on the turn.
Nigeria dominated throughout, with Egypt keeper Mohamed El Shenawy tipping a Taiwo Awoniyi header to the bar and twice denying Chidera Ejuke a goal.
Iheanacho’s performance up front was a welcome relief to Super Eagles supporters, with fellow Nigeria strikers Victor Osimhen, Emmanuel Dennis and Odion Ighalo out of the squad in the continental soccer fiesta.
The Foxes man impressed throughout the first half, feeding in Awoniyi who saw a tame effort saved shortly before the break.
Nigeria, three-time African champions, continued to push for a second after half-time with El Shenawy twice keeping out substitute Chidera Ejuke in the closing stages.
Though one goal was enough for the West Africans, led by interim manager Augustin Eguavoen, the new boss Jose Peseiro was observing from the stands.
The Super Eagles had sacked long-serving boss Gernot Rohr just four weeks before the tournament following an underwhelming World Cup qualification campaign.
