The Super Falcons of Nigeria began their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying campaign in dominant fashion, defeating the Benin Republic 2–0 in Friday’s first-leg match in Lomé, Togo.
First-half goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo secured the win for the nine-time African champions, who controlled the game from start to finish.
Nigeria signaled their attacking intent early. In the 6th minute, Rasheedat Ajibade’s cheeky lob beat goalkeeper Ogoun but rattled the crossbar. Shortly after, Folashade Ijamilusi forced a strong save with a powerful shot as the pressure mounted.
The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when Deborah Abiodun delivered a precise pass to Ihezuo, who calmly finished from close range. Benin almost equalized in the 36th minute, but goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie brilliantly denied Moumouni’s effort.
Just before halftime, Abiodun once again turned provider, setting up Okoronkwo, who finished coolly to double the lead. Benin nearly pulled one back before the break when Moumouni’s shot struck the post.
The second half was more controlled, with Nigeria managing the game well while keeping Benin’s late efforts at bay. Defenders Osinachi Ohale and Tosin Demehin were solid at the back, and Nnadozie sealed a superb performance with a reflex save to stop Sadikou’s late header.
The victory puts the Super Falcons in a strong position ahead of Tuesday’s return leg at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, where they will aim to finish the job and secure their spot at WAFCON 2026.
