Nigeria were held to a 1-1 draw in their World Cup warm-up game against the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Adokiye Amiasimeka Stadium on Monday evening, writes DEAN WORKMAN.

With Gernot Rohr yet to name his final 23-man World Cup squad, there were many Nigerian players who were coming into the game fighting for their spot on the plane to Russia, with seven players still to be cut.

The Super Eagles had an early chance when Simy Nwankwo’s strike hit the crossbar. Kelechi Iheanacho was following up but he had his attempt blocked.

The home side then took the lead with just 15 minutes played. A smartly taken free kick by Ogenyi Onazi was chipped over the defence, Ihenancho then squared the ball to William Troost-Ekong who put the ball into the empty net.

Nigeria, however, were then pressed back with the DR Congo controlling possession of the ball and penning the home side back in their own half.

The Leopards despite their possession could not find a way to goal in the remainder of the half. 1-0 at the break with the Nigerians expected to rotate players in the second half.

The Super Eagles did just that at the start of the second half, making three substitutes which included brining on Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi.

Nigeria then had a couple of chances to double their lead but could not take advantage of them. This left the door open for Florent Ibengé’s men to find leveller with 78 minutes on the clock. After being denied a penalty minutes earlier, the Leopards finally got the luck of the green when Ola Aina fouled Issama Mpeko just outside the box, but the referee deemed it in inside and pointed to the spot.

Substitute Malango Ngita stepped up to send the keeper the wrong way, rolling the ball into the back of the net.

Nigeria pressed forward but could not find a winner. 1-1 the final score. Nigeria will face England in their next World Cup warm-up game against England at Webley Stadium on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled 6:15pm.