Nigeria on Friday evening took a step towards the Russia 2018 World Cup after the Suoer Eagles unexpectedly whitewashed reigning Africa champions Indomitable Lions of Cameroon 4-0 in a Group B match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Two goals in each half sealed victory for the hosts by Odion Ighalo, Skipper Mikel Obi, Victor Moses and substitute Kelechi Iheanacho, with goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa’s brave performance denying the visitors any goal.

The goal harvest started in the 29th when striker Ighalo outmuscled Ngadeu-Ngadjui in a battle for a long ball, cut inside the defender and put a low, left-footed shot past the left hand of goalkeeper Ondoa.

Old warhorse Mikel extended the lead two minutes to the break tapping in A Victor Moses corner from the right flank.

Victor Moses, who had been anxious to score from the blast of the whistle and had an early goal controversially ruled offside, finally put his name on the scorers’ sheet 10 minutes into the second half, firing home a low shot after exchange of passes with Moses Simon.

Supersub Iheanacho iced the cake in the 76th minute, easily heading home into an empty net after superb work out wide from Victor Moses and Ogenyi Onazi.

Nigeria now sit tight on top of the table with nine points from three games. The return fixture of the double header comes up on Monday in Cameroon.