The Super Falcons of Nigeria got off to a good start in their quest to qualify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a 2–0 win over the Benin Republic in the opening leg of the tournament held in Lomé, Togo.
Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo scored in the first half to give the nine-time African champs the win. They controlled the game from start to finish and hardly looked challenged, according to Channels TV.
The Falcons made their intentions clear early on as Rasheedat Ajibade’s daring sixth-minute lob beat goalkeeper Ogoun but hit the crossbar. Just a few seconds later, Folashade Ijamilusi’s powerful drive forced a great save as Nigeria kept up the pressure.
In the 23rd minute, their control paid off when Deborah Abiodun sent a perfect pass to Ihezuo, who scored from close range to give Nigeria a well-deserved lead.
In the 36th minute, Benin almost tied the game when Moumouni got past Nigeria’s defense, but goalie Chiamaka Nnadozie made a great save to stop her.
Before halftime, Abiodun set up Okoronkwo again, and she calmly finished to make it 2–0.
Just before the halftime, the Beninese team almost cut the lead in half when Moumouni’s shot hit the post.
The second half was more controlled, with Nigeria holding on to their lead as Benin tried to catch up late in the game.
The defensive duo of Osinachi Ohale and Tosin Demehin held strong, and Nnadozie made a great reaction save to stop Sadikou’s header in the last few seconds.
The Super Falcons are now in possession of the tie, and on Tuesday they will play the second leg at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, where they will try to finish the job and get their ticket to WAFCON 2026.
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