The Super Eagles of Nigeria have qualified for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after they conquered Sierra Leone on Sunday.

The three-time African champions booked their ticket for the apex international football competition in Africa after they defeated Sierra Leone 3-2 at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Monrovia, Liberia.

Kelechi Iheanacho’s stoppage-time tap-in was the most critical goal in a game in which the Super Eagles relinquished a two-goal cushion.

Jose Peseiro started the game with an offensive three of Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon, all of whom were in good form.

Osimhen drew the first blood as Nigeria lead in the 19th minute.

Osimhen increased the Super Eagles’ lead just after the hour mark.

Mustapha Bundu scored for Sierra Leone three minutes before halftime to give the home team a hope of snatching a point .

The Leone Stars level on goals as their second goal came through Augustus Kargbo in the 84th minute.

However, just as the game appeared to be heading for a draw, Saidu Sanusi delivered an instant of brilliance to lift the Eagles. He dribbled through the Sierra Leonean defense before laying the ball off to Iheanacho for a simple tap-in.

The victory ensured Nigeria’s participation in the AFCON, which will be held in Ivory Coast next year.

The Eagles lead the group with 12 points from five games, while Guinea-Bissau has 10.