Nigeria’s Super Falcons took a significant step toward 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualification with a 2-0 first-leg win over Benin Republic in Lome, Togo, thanks to first-half goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo
The Falcons started aggressively, with Rasheedat Ajibade’s early 6th-minute lob striking the crossbar and Folashade Ijamilusi’s follow-up shot parried by Benin goalkeeper Ogoun.
Despite Benin’s low block strategy, Deborah Abiodun broke through midfield traffic to find Ihezuo, who calmly finished in the 23rd minute to put Nigeria ahead.
Nigeria maintained control for much of the first half, and Benin’s first real chance came in the 36th minute when Moumouni evaded Osinachi Ohale but was denied by Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Shortly before halftime, Abiodun again created, threading a pass to Esther Okoronkwo, who doubled the lead with a precise finish. Benin nearly pulled one back in stoppage time of the first half when Moumouni’s strike hit the post, leaving the score 2-0 at the break.
The second half saw tactical changes and substitutions from both sides, but Nigeria absorbed pressure well, containing the pace of Benin’s wingers. In the final moments, a 90th-minute cross allowed Sadikou a header on goal, but Nnadozie made the save to preserve the clean sheet.
The 2-0 result gives the Super Falcons a strong advantage ahead of the return leg at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Tuesday.
