Nigeria’s Super Falcons moved closer to qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a commanding 2-0 victory over Benin Republic in the first leg of their qualifier in Lome, Togo.
The game started brightly for Nigeria, with Rasheedat Ajibade testing the crossbar in the 6th minute and Folashade Ijamilusi’s effort saved by Benin goalkeeper Ogoun shortly after. Despite Benin’s defensive setup, Deborah Abiodun broke through midfield to find Chinwendu Ihezuo, who calmly finished in the 23rd minute to give the Falcons the lead.
Nigeria dominated possession throughout the first half, and although Benin created their first chance in the 36th minute through Moumouni, Nnadozie was equal to the task. Before halftime, Abiodun again set up a teammate, threading a precise pass to Esther Okoronkwo, who doubled Nigeria’s lead with a clinical strike. Benin nearly pulled one back in stoppage time, but Moumouni’s shot hit the post, leaving the score 2-0 at the break.
The second half saw both sides make tactical adjustments and substitutions, but Nigeria held firm, controlling the game and frustrating Benin’s attempts to break through. In the 90th minute, Sadikou had a header on goal following an in-swinging cross, but Nnadozie made a vital save to maintain the clean sheet.
The first-leg advantage gives the Super Falcons a strong position ahead of the return fixture at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Tuesday.
