Poland struck in the closing moments of stoppage time to salvage a 2-2 draw against Nigeria in an international friendly at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw on Wednesday.
The Super Eagles appeared to be on course for victory after recovering from a first-half setback and retaking the lead in the second period. However, Przemysław Wiśniewski’s late intervention ensured the hosts secured a share of the spoils in dramatic fashion.
Nigeria had taken the initiative midway through the first half when Terem Moffi capped a flowing attacking move with a finish that put the visitors ahead in the 23rd minute.
The goal rewarded a positive start from Eric Chelle’s side, who sought to impose themselves against their European opponents. For much of the opening period, Nigeria looked comfortable after establishing the lead and appeared well positioned to carry an advantage into the interval.
Poland, however, responded before the break. Kacper Potulski found the net shortly before half-time to restore parity and ensure the teams headed into the dressing rooms level at 1-1.
With the match finely balanced, Nigeria’s coaching staff opted to make a series of changes at the beginning of the second half in an effort to inject fresh energy into the side.
Philip Otele was introduced in place of Akor Adams, while Semi Ajayi replaced Emmanuel Fernandez immediately after the restart. Bruno Onyemaechi came on for Zaidu Sanusi, Paul Onuachu took the place of Moffi, and Calvin Bassey was brought on for Igoh Ogbu.
The alterations proved effective as Nigeria regained control of the contest.
One of the substitutes, Onuachu, played a decisive role when he calmly converted a penalty to restore the Super Eagles’ lead. His successful spot-kick put Nigeria 2-1 in front and appeared to have placed them on course for a hard-earned victory away from home.
As the clock ticked down, the visitors looked increasingly likely to secure the win. Nigeria managed to preserve their advantage through the closing stages and were moments away from ending the encounter on top.
But Poland refused to give up and mounted one final attack deep into added time.
Five minutes into stoppage time, Wiśniewski found the breakthrough the hosts desperately needed, scoring with virtually the final kick of the match to make it 2-2.
The late goal sparked celebrations among the home supporters and denied Nigeria what had seemed a certain victory.
Instead, the contest ended all square, with both sides taking a point from an entertaining and closely fought friendly in Warsaw. While Nigeria will be disappointed to have seen victory slip away at the death, Poland will take encouragement from their resilience after battling back twice to avoid defeat.
