Aiyegbeni Yakubu scored the only goal of the game as Nigeria got their African Cup of Nations back on track with a 1-0 win over Benin.

The Super Eagles suffered a 3-1 defeat to Egypt in their opening game in the African Cup of Nations, but Everton's Yakubu got their campaign back on track with a penalty four minutes before half-time to secure the victory.

Nigeria got off to the brightest start and began to take control of the game, although it was Benin who had the first decent chance as Seidath Tchomogo saw his 25-yard effort fly narrowly wide of the left upright.

Knowing they had to win to boost their chances of progressing, Nigeria began to apply pressure and were almost rewarded in the 15th minute but Yakubu after being sent through on goal. However, Nigeria were to take the lead four minutes from the break. Benin goalkeeper Rachad Chitou did well to beat out Koukou's attempt but in the goalmouth scramble that ensued Romuald Boco was adjudged to have handled Odemwingie's header and Yakubu fired the penalty home to give Nigeria the lead.

Benin came out after the break desperate for the equaliser which they almost got 10 minutes after the restart when the ever-dangerous Sessegnon set up Nouihoum Kobena only for the Squirrels to be denied by the woodwork. The Super Eagles should have sealed the result 15 minutes from time but Obasi Ogbuke headed wide from close range. However, Nigeria clung on to take all three points.

Nigeria are now level on points with Egypt, who take on Mozambique late on Saturday, while Benin are bottom with just a point from their two games.