Wafcon qualifier Benin 0-2 Nigeria: Ihezuo and Okoronkwo on target for Super Falcons

The Super Falcons cruised to a dominant 2-0 victory over the Republic of Benin in the first leg of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers on Friday.

Goals from Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo in the first half handed Nigeria the win at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo. 

The Falcons started the match on the front foot, creating several chances early on, forcing the Beninese goalkeeper into multiple saves and even striking the crossbar.

Their pressure paid off in the 24th minute when Chinwendu Ihezuo broke the deadlock with a delightful lob over the goalkeeper after a precise upfield pass from Deborah Abiodun.

Nigeria maintained control and continued to push for a second goal, showing attacking intent and composure despite some resilient defending from the hosts.

Esther Okoronkwo doubled the Super Falcons' advantage just minutes before halftime, finishing smartly after another superb assist from Deborah Abiodun.

Benin came out stronger in the second half, showing more determination as they looked to halve the deficit in front of their home fans.

However, the Falcons maintained their composure and dominance, keeping firm control of the game to deny the hosts any chance of a comeback.

In the 80th minute, head coach Justin Madugu made a triple substitution, introducing Asisat Oshoala, debutant Joy Omewa, and Christy Ucheibe to see out the contest.

They replaced Okoronkwo, Ihezuo, and Taiwo Afolabi, who was also making her debut for the team.

With the 2-0 victory, Nigeria took a strong step toward qualification and remained in a commanding position to defend the WAFCON title they last won in Morocco.

Adeyemi Adewale

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