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Nigeria’s Super Falcons kicked off their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying campaign impressively, earning a solid 2–0 victory over the Benin Republic in Friday’s first-leg encounter in Lomé, Togo.
First-half strikes from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo sealed a comfortable win for the nine-time African champions, who controlled the match from the outset.
Nigeria showed attacking intent early on when Rasheedat Ajibade’s clever lob in the sixth minute beat goalkeeper Ogoun but struck the crossbar. Shortly after, Folashade Ijamilusi tested the keeper again as the Falcons maintained relentless pressure.
Their dominance was rewarded in the 23rd minute when Deborah Abiodun threaded a precise pass through Benin’s defence for Ihezuo, who calmly finished from close range.
Benin nearly levelled in the 36th minute, but goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie produced a superb save to deny Moumouni.
Moments before the interval, Abiodun turned provider again, setting up Okoronkwo for a composed second goal. Moumouni later struck the post as Benin sought a response.
The Falcons managed the second half with composure, maintaining defensive discipline through Osinachi Ohale and Tosin Demehin’s solid partnership. Nnadozie capped her outstanding performance with a fine late save to keep out Sadikou’s header.
With this result, Nigeria take a commanding advantage into Tuesday’s return leg in Abeokuta at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, where they aim to complete their qualification for WAFCON 2026.
