Nigeria survived a scare in Addis Ababa as the African champions rallied to beat Ethiopia 2-1 in the opening leg of their World Cup play-off.

The hosts were the superior team for the first hour and led after 56 minutes as Nigerian goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama misjudged a cross from Behailu Assefa.

Nigeria, who were not at their best, equalised through Emmanuel Emenike’s ferocious drive after 67 minutes.

Emenike then won and scored a penalty late on to seal a barely-deserved win.