LOMÉ, Togo (FN) — Nigeria’s Super Falcons kicked off their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a commanding 2–0 victory over the Republic of Benin on Friday, asserting their dominance in a match played on neutral ground at the Stade de Kégué.
Goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo gave the nine-time African champions a first-leg advantage, as they controlled the tempo and limited Benin’s chances throughout the encounter.
The match was relocated to Togo after Benin’s home stadiums failed to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards. Despite the change of venue, Nigeria wasted no time imposing their rhythm.
Rasheedat Ajibade nearly opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a lob that struck the crossbar, while Folashade Ijamilusi forced a sharp save moments later. The breakthrough came in the 24th minute when Deborah Abiodun sliced through Benin’s defense with a pinpoint pass to Ihezuo, who calmly lifted the ball over the goalkeeper.
Just before halftime, Abiodun delivered again — this time finding Okoronkwo inside the box, who finished with composure to double Nigeria’s lead.
Benin’s lone threat came in the 36th minute when Moumouni broke past Osinachi Ohale and fired at goal, but Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie made a crucial stop to preserve the clean sheet.
Head coach Justin Madugu praised the team’s discipline and creativity, calling the win “a strong statement of intent.” Goalkeeper Nnadozie described the result as “crucial for momentum,” while fans on social media hailed Abiodun’s performance as “world-class.”
The return leg is scheduled for Tuesday at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where Nigeria will look to seal qualification for the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco.
The continental tournament will run from March 17 to April 3, 2026, and also serves as Africa’s qualifying pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
