Goals from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen helped Nigeria’s Super Eagles secure a 3-0 win over Benin Republic in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Saturday.
Lookman, recently nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, marked the occasion with two impressive goals, setting the 2024 AFCON runners-up on course for qualification to the next edition in Morocco.
Benin initially held strong with a solid defensive effort and appeared set for a goalless first half, but the Atalanta winger broke the deadlock in added time, skillfully evading defenders before finding the net.
Victor Osimhen, who recently completed a move to Galatasaray after being linked with Napoli, Chelsea, and Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli, showcased his talents with a stunning goal in the 78th minute. Coming on as a substitute for Victor Boniface, Osimhen connected with a half-volley after a well-placed pass from Wilfred Ndidi to double Nigeria’s lead.
Lookman completed the victory in the 83rd minute, heading in a cross from Moses Simon to make it 3-0, placing the ball beyond the Benin goalkeeper.
Despite a few attacking threats from the Cheetahs, Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was on form, making crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
The win also marked a successful start for interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, who took charge following a failed agreement between the Nigeria Football Federation and German coach Bruno Labbadia due to tax issues. Eguavoen’s tenure begins with a convincing win against a Benin side that had previously defeated Nigeria 2-1 in a World Cup qualifier in June.