The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a decisive 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo on Saturday.
From the outset, Benin Republic adopted a defensive stance, allowing Nigeria to control the game. Ademola Lookman had an early opportunity to give Nigeria the lead in the 17th minute but missed the target after being played through on goal by Wilfred Ndidi.
In the 28th minute, Benin Republic’s goalkeeper Saturnin Alagbe made a brilliant save to prevent Samuel Chukwueze from scoring. Just before halftime, Super Eagles’ goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was called into action to stop a free-kick from Steve Mounie.
In the closing moments of the first half, Lookman broke the deadlock with a spectacular solo effort. The Atalanta winger dribbled past three defenders before scoring with a precise shot.
The second half saw Lookman squander an early chance, while Benin Republic started to assert themselves. Mounie tested Nwabali with a shot from inside the penalty area, but the Nigerian goalkeeper was up to the task.
In the 78th minute, substitute Victor Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s lead, finishing off a pass from Wilfred Ndidi. Lookman then added his second goal of the match in the 82nd minute to seal the 3-0 win.
The Super Eagles will face Rwanda next, with their match scheduled for Tuesday at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.
