The Super Falcons of Nigeria began their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2–0d victory over the Republic of Benin on Friday.
The nine-time African champions dominated the match, which took place at the Stade de Kégué in Lome, Togo, with goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo giving Nigeria a first-leg advantage.
The game was held on neutral ground after Benin’s home stadiums were declared unfit to host CAF-sanctioned matches.
Girl in a jacket
Nigeria started strongly, with Rasheedat Ajibade hitting the crossbar in the 10th minute and Folashade Ijamilusi forcing a save from the Benin goalkeeper shortly after.
The breakthrough came in the 24th minute when Deborah Abiodun delivered a precise pass to Ihezuo, who calmly lifted the ball over the advancing goalkeeper to make it 1–0.
Just before halftime, Abiodun provided another assist, setting up Okoronkwo, who finished neatly inside the box to double Nigeria’s lead.
The Falcons maintained control throughout the second half, limiting Benin to few chances. Benin’s closest opportunity came in the 36th minute when Moumouni broke through Nigeria’s defense but was denied by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Nigeria will host the return leg on Tuesday at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State, as they look to secure qualification for the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco.
The continental tournament is scheduled to take place from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
