Nigeria are tipped as the early favourites to win the Africa Cup of Nations on social media

Nigeria have been widely praised on social media after beating seven-time Africa Cup of Nations champions Egypt in their opening clash in Group D.

Having dominated throughout, the Super Eagles netted the only goal of the game through Kelechi Iheanacho, with Mohamed Salah’s side failing to mount a response.

Indeed, it was Nigeria who came closest to the next goal, with Taiwo Awoniyi’s header tipped onto the bar superbly and Chidera Ejuke’s strike also kept out. 

Just one goal was enough, however, with the West Africans – led by interim boss Augustin Eguavoen – delivering the best performance of the tournament so far.

Even the sacking of long-serving manager Gernot Rohr was not enough to derail their superb start to the campaign – leading football fans to laud them. 

‘I don’t want to get carried away or anything but Nigeria are going all the way in this tournament, stop us if you can,’ one clearly-delighted viewer said. 

‘Nigeria playing like actual big boys!’ another posted during the game. ‘Solid football so far in this game. Egypt will have to dig deep if they want to get anything here.’ 

A third pointed out how impressive the display was despite Nigeria missing two of their standout players.

‘Nigeria are without Emmanuel Dennis and Victor Osimhen but yet the team is firing,’ they said. ‘I’m impressed with Nigeria’s ball movement and counter press.

‘AFCON favourites atm (sic).’ 

‘Nigeria should be out of sight,’ another posted. ‘Best football we’ve seen this AFCON.’

And a fifth couldn’t resist a sly dig, writing: ‘Nigeria have a better tactical setup than Manchester United.’

Next up, Nigeria will face Sudan in Group D on Saturday, as they look to earn back-to-back victories.        

Nigeria supporters created a vibrant atmosphere during the tie, which their side triumphed in