Nigeria’s Super Falcons took a big step towards qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations competition after a convincing 2-0 victory over Benin Republic’s Amazons in the first leg of their final qualifying round in Lomé, Togo.
The reigning African champions started brightly, with Rasheedat Ajibade almost opening the scoring in the 6th minute, but her clever lob was denied by the crossbar. Moments later, Folashade Ijamilusi’s strike was pushed away by Benin goalkeeper Ogoun.
Nigeria’s pressure finally paid off in the 23rd minute when Deborah Abiodun found Chinwendu Ihezuo with a precise pass. The striker calmly slotted the ball beyond the goalkeeper to give the Falcons the lead.
The Super Falcons continued to dominate possession, but Benin nearly equalised in the 36th minute through Moumouni, whose effort was well saved by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Just before half-time, Abiodun once again played provider, splitting the Benin defence with a fine through ball to Esther Okoronkwo, who finished confidently to make it 2-0 for Nigeria. Benin came close to pulling one back when Moumouni’s shot struck the post on the stroke of half-time.
The second half was more balanced, with both sides making tactical changes. Nigeria, however, remained organised in defence and handled the increased pressure from the Amazons’ wingers. In the final minute, Sadikou’s header threatened to reduce the deficit, but Nnadozie was alert to preserve Nigeria’s clean sheet.
The result puts the Super Falcons in control ahead of the return leg scheduled for Tuesday at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta.
