Nigeria were denied victory in dramatic fashion as a late equaliser from Przemyslaw Wisniewski earned Poland a 2-2 draw in an international friendly played in Warsaw on Wednesday.
The Super Eagles appeared set for a second consecutive win over the hosts after goals from Terem Moffi and substitute Paul Onuachu put them ahead. However, Wisniewski struck deep into stoppage time with a powerful long-range effort that beat goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and rescued a draw for Poland.
Head coach Eric Chelle handed a start to debutant Abdullahi Bewene, while Okoye, Igoh Ogbu, Emmanuel Fernandez, Bruno Onyemaechi, Wilfred Ndidi, Tochukwu Nnadi, Frank Onyeka, Akor Adams, Moffi and Moses Simon also featured from the start.
Poland began brightly and threatened early through Jakub Kaminski, who failed to convert a free header in the fourth minute. Moments later, Akor Adams nearly turned a corner into his own net, while Robert Lewandowski’s attempt from a set piece was comfortably gathered by Okoye.
Despite the early pressure from the hosts, Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute. Moses Simon delivered a low cross into the box and Moffi was on hand to finish from close range. The goal was initially reviewed by VAR before being confirmed.
The Eagles maintained their advantage until the opening minute of the second half when Kaylee Potulski capitalised on a defensive lapse following a corner to level the scores for Poland.
Chelle responded by making seven substitutions at the break, introducing Calvin Bassey, Philip Otele, Raphael Onyedika, Rafiu Durosinmi, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi and Onuachu.
The changes injected fresh energy into the Nigerian side, and they regained the lead in the 77th minute when Onuachu calmly converted a penalty after a Polish defender handled the ball inside the area.
Poland pushed for another equaliser, but Okoye produced a series of impressive saves, including a crucial stop to deny Lewandowski from close range.
Just as Nigeria looked set to hold on for the win, Wisniewski unleashed a stunning strike from distance in the 95th minute, leaving Okoye with no chance and ensuring the match ended 2-2.
The Super Eagles will now shift their focus to another friendly encounter against Portugal national football team on June 10 as preparations continue for upcoming international assignments.
