The Super Eagles were defeated by Croatia 2-0 in their first Group D encounter of the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Russia on Saturday night.
After a superb cross in the 32 minute, Mario Mandzukic threw himself at the ball and his glancing header deflects off Oghenekaro Etebo and creeps past Francis Uzoho.
Nigeria made several efforts to level proceedings before the end of the first half to no avail.
Coming back in the second half, the Super Eagles continued mounting the pressure but were unable to get past the determined defence of their opponents.
However, against the run of play, William Troost-Ekong pulled Mandzukic down in his own box after a corner kick and the referee pointed to the spot. Luca Modric stepped up to slot home and double their lead.
Nigeria remain at the bottom of Group D log while Croatia sit top after Argentina played a 1-1 draw with Iceland earlier.
The Super Eagles will next meet Iceland.