Nigeria’s Super Falcons have moved one step closer to securing qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after claiming a 2-0 victory over Benin Republic in the first leg of their final qualifying tie at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé on Friday.
Head coach Justin Madugu named a strong starting XI for the clash, and his side nearly got off to a flying start when captain Rasheedat Ajibade’s early effort rattled the crossbar. Folashade Ijamilusi also twice came close to opening the scoring, only to be denied by Benin goalkeeper Surakatou Alassan, who kept the hosts in the game with a string of saves.
The breakthrough eventually came midway through the first half when Chiwendu Ihezuo converted from close range after a clever assist from Deborah Abiodun, handing Nigeria a deserved lead.
The Super Falcons continued to dominate proceedings, with Esther Okoronkwo missing a golden chance to double the advantage before Benin’s Romaine Gandonou tested Chiamaka Nnadozie with a fierce effort at the other end.
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Moments later, Okoronkwo made amends for her earlier miss, finishing calmly from another Abiodun assist to make it 2-0 and put the visitors firmly in control. Benin nearly pulled one back before halftime when Gandonou’s effort crashed against the crossbar, but Nigeria held firm to maintain their lead.
The second half saw fewer clear-cut chances as Benin Republic tightened their defense and the Super Falcons managed the game effectively. Ihezuo squandered a chance to grab her second of the evening before Madugu brought on fresh legs, introducing Asisat Oshoala, Joy Omewa, and Christy Ucheibe to help secure the result.
Although Nigeria were unable to add to their tally, the substitutions helped the team see out the contest comfortably, ensuring a solid advantage ahead of the return leg.
The Super Falcons will now host Benin Republic in the second leg at the MKO Abiola Arena in Abeokuta on Tuesday, October 28, where they will look to seal their qualification for next year’s WAFCON tournament.
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