Nigeria played out a 0-0 draw in Ghana on Sunday, boosting their chances of securing a first-ever African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifying victory against their arch-rivals.
The two countries have met twice before in two-legged eliminators for the tournament, which is restricted to players who compete in their country of birth, with Ghana emerging victorious on both occasions.
In 2009, Ghana triumphed 3-2 on aggregate, and in the last edition, they won on penalties after a 2-2 draw.
In Accra, Ghana applied early pressure, but the first leg of the second round quickly became a cautious encounter, largely played out in midfield with few chances on goal.
Nigeria came closest to breaking the deadlock when Abubakar Adamu struck the woodwork in the second half.
As Ghana gained the upper hand in the latter stages, Nigeria goalkeeper Henry Ozoemena pulled off several excellent saves to keep his side level.
The return leg will take place in the southeastern city of Uyo on Saturday, with a spot in the February 1-28 tournament in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda at stake.
Meanwhile, defending champions Senegal were held to a 1-1 draw away to Liberia in Paynesville, with their lead lasting just six minutes.
Liberia, who had been eliminated by Senegal in the last two qualifying rounds, fell behind in the 75th minute when Seydina Mbaye scored.
Abdullai Bility equalised for the home side, offering a glimmer of hope ahead of the return leg.
Senegal, who shocked hosts Algeria in the previous final, is aiming to replicate Morocco’s feat and become the second nation to win back-to-back CHAN titles.
Ivory Coast secured a 2-0 victory over West African neighbours Burkina Faso in Abidjan, thanks to Oumar Konate, who scored in each half.
Sudan also claimed a 2-0 away win over Ethiopia, strengthening their bid for a tournament place. Yasir Mozamil opened the scoring in the first half, with Moussa Kante adding a second deep into added time.
