Super Falcons Secure Comfortable 2-0 Victory Over Benin Republic in WAFCON Qualifier

Nigeria’s reigning African champions, the Super Falcons, have established a solid foundation in their quest for a spot at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), securing an impressive 2-0 away victory against the Benin Republic’s Amazons in the first leg of their final qualifying fixture. The match was held at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo, on Friday night, as Benin’s home stadium was not approved by CAF.

Dependable NG reports that the dominant performance by the Nigerian side was highlighted by a stunning two-goal haul in the first half, putting the Super Falcons in a commanding position ahead of the return leg. The team’s intentions were clear from the start, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade narrowly missing an early opener as her powerful shot rattled the crossbar in the seventh minute. Moments later, Folashade Ijamilusi also saw her effort cleared off the line in a desperate defensive action by the home side.

The breakthrough for Nigeria arrived in the 24th minute when Chiwendu Ihezuo expertly latched onto a superb, defense-splitting pass from midfielder Deborah Abiodun. Ihezuo showed composure to cleverly chip the ball over the onrushing Benin goalkeeper to take the lead. Although the Amazons pushed for an equaliser, a brilliant save from Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, in the 35th minute denied them a crucial goal.

The Super Falcons cemented their control just before halftime, with Esther Okoronkwo doubling the lead. Midfield maestro Deborah Abiodun once again provided the sublime assist, threading a pass through to Okoronkwo, who finished with precision to make the score 2-0. The second half saw Nigeria maintain its dominance, effectively shutting down the hosts’ attempts to reduce the deficit.

The 2-0 advantage gives Nigeria a significant boost as they return home to host the second and decisive leg of the qualifier. The final match to determine who progresses to the WAFCON finals in Morocco is scheduled to take place at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta next Tuesday, October 28.