How Super Falcons edge closer to Morocco 2026 with Benin rout

Reigning African champions, the Super Falcons of Nigeria, took a big step in their quest for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualification, defeating their Bénin Republic counterparts, 2-0 in the first leg of their qualifying fixture held in Lomé, Togo.

First-half goals from forwards Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo provided the decisive margin.

The Super Falcons, started the match with an aggressive tempo. Early chances saw Rasheedat Ajibade’s lob hit the woodwork in the 6th minute, followed shortly by Folashade Ijamilusi’s strike being parried by Amazon’s goalkeeper, Ogoun.

Nigeria’s persistent pressure paid off in the 23rd minute. Midfielder Deborah Abiodun was instrumental, weaving a pass through a congested midfield to find Chinwendu Ihezuo. Ihezuo showed composure and skill to fire the ball beyond the reach of Ogoun, giving Nigeria a deserved 1-0 lead.

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The Super Falcons continued to dominate possession and territory. While Bénin managed their first genuine threat in the 36th minute when Moumouni’s shot was saved by Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, it was Nigeria who struck again before the break.

Deborah Abiodun was again the architect, delivering a defence-splitting pass to Esther Okoronkwo.

Okoronkwo made no mistake, slotting the ball home to double Nigeria’s lead just before the stroke of halftime.

The Amazons were unlucky not to pull one back almost immediately, as Moumouni’s shot against the run of play hit the post, leaving the score 2-0 at the interval.

The second half was a more cagey affair, marked by tactical adjustments and substitutions from both sides.

Bénin’s Amazons upped their intensity, particularly through their wingers, putting pressure on the Nigerian defence in their search for a goal.

However, the Super Falcons’ experienced backline, marshalled effectively, soaked up the pressure. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was called into action late in the game, denying a close-range header from Sadikou in the 90th minute to preserve her clean sheet.

The 2-0 victory puts the Super Falcons in a commanding position ahead of the return leg.

The second and final leg of the qualifier is scheduled for Tuesday at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta.