Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo have powered Nigeria’s Super Falcons to a decisive 2–0 win over Benin Republic in the Women’s AFCON qualifiers.
The reigning African champions have secured a strong first-leg advantage in Lomé, with both goals arriving before halftime through composed finishing and midfield precision.
Nigeria began with pace and intent. Rasheedat Ajibade’s sixth-minute lob beat goalkeeper Ogoun but struck the crossbar, before Folashade Ijamilusi’s low effort was parried moments later.
Benin’s compact defence soon faltered. Deborah Abiodun sliced open midfield traffic with a deft pass to Ihezuo, who fired past Ogoun for the opener in the 23rd minute.
The Super Falcons dictated tempo through sustained possession and spatial control. Benin’s first real threat came in the 36th minute, when Moumouni forced a save from Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Nigeria doubled their advantage before the interval. Abiodun, again influential, released Okoronkwo with a precise through ball, and the striker calmly slotted home from close range.
Benin almost responded late in the half, as Moumouni’s curling shot struck the post, leaving the Falcons relieved to maintain their two-goal cushion at the break.
The second half turned more tactical. Substitutions disrupted rhythm, but Nigeria absorbed pressure efficiently and limited Benin’s attacking width through disciplined defensive structure.
In the 90th minute, Benin’s Sadikou rose highest to meet a corner, yet Nnadozie reacted sharply to preserve Nigeria’s clean sheet and victory margin.
The 2–0 result places the Super Falcons in firm control ahead of the return leg on Tuesday at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
