Nigeria beats Benin Republic to make winning start to 2025 AFCON qualifiers
Nigeria kicked off their 2025 AFCON qualification with a 3-0 win over the Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Ballon d’Or nominee Ademola Lookman opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time, setting the Super Eagles on course for a comfortable victory. Interim head coach Austin Eguavoen opted for an aggressive 3-4-3 formation, with Victor Boniface leading the line while reigning CAF Player of the Year Victor Osimhen started on the bench.
The first half saw Nigeria dominate possession, with the Benin Republic sitting deep to absorb the pressure. Despite several attempts, the breakthrough came right before halftime when Lookman, who plays for Atalanta, broke through the Beninese defense to fire home a clinical finish, putting Nigeria 1-0 up.
In the second half, Eguavoen’s tactical substitutions proved key. Osimhen was introduced in the 65th minute, replacing Boniface, and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact. The Napoli striker doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 78th minute, capitalizing on a well-placed cross from Samuel Chukwueze.
Lookman added a third goal in stoppage time, securing a brace and sealing Nigeria’s dominant performance. With this win, the Super Eagles are well-positioned to progress in their AFCON qualifying campaign.
Nigeria now turns its attention to their next match against Rwanda on September 10, 2024, with hopes of maintaining their strong form.
