The Super Falcons of Nigeria got their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying campaign off to a flying start with a 2–0 victory over Benin Republic’s Amazons on Friday evening at the Stade de Kégué, Lomé.
First-half goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo handed the nine-time African champions a firm advantage ahead of Tuesday’s return leg in Nigeria.
Coming just days after the Super Eagles’ emphatic win over Benin in the men’s World Cup qualifiers, the Falcons underlined Nigeria’s continued dominance over their West African neighbours with a composed and disciplined display.
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From the outset, the Super Falcons dictated play and pinned the Beninese team deep in their half.
Their early pressure paid off midway through the first half when Deborah Abiodun split the defence with a perfectly weighted through ball for Ihezuo, who finished neatly to open the scoring.
As the first half drew to a close, Nigeria doubled their lead. Esther Okoronkwo broke clear of her marker and calmly finished in a one-on-one situation to make it 2–0 before the break.
The Nigerian midfield trio of Blessing Abiodun, Tosin Demehin, and Rasheedat Ajibade dictated the tempo with disciplined positioning and quick passing transitions. Abiodun stood out with an industrious display, blending defensive grit with creative flair and playing a key role in both goals.
