Okocha on the mark in Nigeria win

Nigeria got their African Cup of Nations campaign on track with a 4-0 Group D victory against South Africa today, while Morocco maintained their perfect record in the section by thrashing Benin 4-0.

Historic goal
An early goal from Joseph Yobo set Nigeria on their way to their first points in the pool after South African goalkeeper Emile Baron spilled a corner in the fifth minute. The Everton FC defender claimed his first international goal with a shot from the edge of the area. Captain Jay-Jay Okocha made it 2-0 from the penalty spot in the 64th minute, scoring the 1,000th goal in the competition's history.

Superb strikes
Two superb strikes by Peter Odemwingie in the last ten minutes doubled the scoreline. The substitute turned and struck a powerful shot from the right in the 81st minute and then produced an action replay from a similar position two minutes later. Both countries now have three points.

Draw needed
Morocco, who have yet to concede a goal, lead Group D with six points and need to draw with South Africa to make sure of a quarter-final place. Benin have lost both their games. The competition debutants were always chasing the game after Moroccan striker Marouane Chamakh was gifted the opener in the 17th minute.

Late goals
Benin's defence tired late in the game to allow substitute Youssef Mokhtari and defenders Abdeslam Ouaddou and Talal El Karkouri to score in a seven-minute spell.