The Super Eagles were left frustrated after surrendering victory in the final moments of their international friendly against Poland, with the hosts scoring a dramatic late equaliser to force a 2-2 draw in Warsaw on Wednesday night.
Nigeria appeared set for an impressive away win after goals from Terem Moffi and Paul Onuachu put Eric Chelle’s side ahead, but Poland struck with virtually the last kick of the game to deny the visitors a memorable result.
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Terem Moffi and Paul Onuachu scored for Nigeria in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Poland.
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Poland rescued a point through a stoppage-time strike from Przemysław Wiśniewski.
Moffi fires Nigeria ahead
With both nations using the friendly as preparation for future assignments, Poland started the game brightly and created the first meaningful opportunities.
The hosts enjoyed greater possession in the opening stages and came close to taking the lead when Jakub Kamiński headed wide from close range after being left unmarked inside the box.
Poland continued to apply pressure and nearly found the breakthrough through veteran striker Robert Lewandowski. However, Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye reacted well to keep the effort out.
Despite spending long periods without the ball, Nigeria struck first with their first major attacking move of the contest. Wilfred Ndidi carried possession forward before releasing Moses Simon on the wing.
The winger delivered a precise low cross into the penalty area, allowing Terem Moffi to finish comfortably and hand the Super Eagles a 1-0 advantage midway through the first half.
Poland respond before halftime
Nigeria nearly doubled their lead before the break when Tochukwu Nnadi unleashed a powerful long-range effort, but Polish goalkeeper Kamil Grabara produced an outstanding save to keep his side in the contest.
That intervention proved crucial moments later. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Poland capitalised on sustained pressure from a set-piece situation. Defender Kacper Potulski reacted quickest inside a crowded penalty area and bundled the ball into the net to restore parity.
The equaliser ensured both teams headed into the dressing room level despite Nigeria creating several dangerous chances during the opening period.
Onuachu restores Super Eagles lead
The second half saw Nigeria emerge with renewed energy. The visitors looked more threatening going forward and almost regained the lead shortly after the restart when Semi Ajayi delivered an inviting cross that Paul Onuachu narrowly headed wide.
As the game entered its closing stages, a decisive moment arrived following a lengthy VAR review. Officials spotted a handball inside the Polish penalty area, awarding Nigeria a penalty.
Onuachu stepped up confidently and converted from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to restore the Super Eagles’ lead. The goal rewarded Nigeria’s attacking intent and appeared enough to secure victory on foreign soil.
Poland strike with final shot
Just when Nigeria seemed destined for a morale-boosting win, Poland produced one final moment of quality. Deep into stoppage time, defender Przemysław Wiśniewski surged forward and unleashed a stunning long-range effort from distance.
The strike flew beyond Okoye and into the top corner, sparking celebrations among the home supporters and ensuring the match finished 2-2.
The dramatic equaliser extended Poland’s strong record at home and prevented the Super Eagles from claiming what would have been a notable victory against European opposition.
Despite the disappointment, Eric Chelle will be encouraged by several aspects of his team’s display, including their attacking sharpness, defensive organisation, and ability to compete strongly away from home.
Eagles to face Portugal next
The Super Eagles will now shift their attention to another high-profile international friendly when they take on Portugal on June 10.
The upcoming encounter follows Nigeria’s recent success in the Unity Cup, where Chelle’s men lifted the trophy after victories over Zimbabwe and Jamaica in London.
The Portugal clash presents another opportunity for the coaching staff to assess the squad against top-level opposition as preparations continue for future competitive fixtures.
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While the late draw against Poland may feel like a missed opportunity, the performance offered encouraging signs that the Super Eagles are continuing to build momentum under Chelle’s leadership ahead of their next major test.
