Nigeria defeated Ethiopia 2-1 in their away leg of Africa’s playoff round to put themselves in an outstanding position as they look to quailfy for Brazil 2014.
The Super Eagles, despite trailing in the second half, rallied in Addis Ababa thanks to a brace by Emmanuel Emenike.
Ethiopia deservedly went ahead in the 56th minute when Behailu Assefa’s cross fooled Nigerian goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama and he caught the ball behind the line.
The goal alerted the visitors though, and Emenike stepped up.
The Fenerbahce striker powered home a drive in the 67th minute for the equalizer, and won the match with a penalty in the 90th minute, finishing after being brought down by Aynalem Hailu.
Barring a collapse at home from Victor Moses, John Obi Mikel, Shola Ameobi and company, Nigeria will qualify for their fifth World Cup in their last six attempts.
The reverse fixture will take place November 16th in Calabar. If Ethiopia can complete the comeback, they would be the first East African nation to appear in a World Cup.