The Super Eagles kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in style, securing a commanding 3-0 win over Benin at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.
From the very first whistle, the Nigerian side dominated proceedings, leaving Benin scrambling to keep up. Despite the Cheetahs’ best efforts, they only managed their first shot on target in the 40th minute, comfortably saved by Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Ademola Lookman, the star of the night, dazzled fans just before halftime. His mesmerizing solo run left defenders in his wake, giving Nigeria a crucial 1-0 lead as the teams headed into the break.
Benin showed more intent in the second half, but their hopes were dashed in the 78th minute when substitute Victor Osimhen, fresh off his move to Galatasaray, volleyed home a cross from Wilfred Ndidi to double Nigeria’s advantage. Just five minutes later, Lookman sealed the deal with a header from Moses Simon’s pinpoint cross, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
This win was particularly sweet for the Super Eagles, who were looking to bounce back after a disappointing World Cup qualification campaign. The triumph not only avenged their June loss to Benin during the World Cup qualifiers but also condemned their former coach, Gernot Rohr, to a humbling defeat in his first AFCON qualifier with Benin.
For interim coach Austin Eguavoen, this result is a massive confidence boost as he leads the team while the Nigeria Football Federation continues its search for a permanent head coach.
Nigeria now sits at the top of Group D with three points, ahead of Rwanda and Libya, who each have one point after drawing their opening matches. The Super Eagles’ next challenge will come on Tuesday, September 10, when they travel to face Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium. Meanwhile, Benin will look to bounce back against Libya on the same day.
With the likes of Lookman and Osimhen in top form, Nigeria fans will be hoping for more fireworks as the road to the 2025 AFCON continues.
