The Super Falcons made a confident start to their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying campaign, defeating Benin Republic’s Amazons 2–0 in Lome, Togo, on Thursday night.
Playing for the first time since their 3–2 win over Morocco in the 2024 WAFCON final, the reigning African champions showed class and composure from the onset.
It was a memorable outing for Taiwo Afolabi, who made her senior international debut, and Osinachi Ohale, who marked her 80th appearance for Nigeria.
The Super Falcons started brightly, with Rasheedat Ajibade’s sixth-minute lob crashing off the crossbar and Folashade Ijamilusi’s strike two minutes later pushed away by goalkeeper Ogoun.
Their dominance soon paid off when Deborah Abiodun split the Beninese defence with a precise through ball to Chinwendu Ihezuo, who calmly lifted her effort beyond the goalkeeper to give Nigeria the lead in the 23rd minute.
Benin came close to equalising in the 36th minute through Moumouni, but Chiamaka Nnadozie pulled off a crucial save to keep Nigeria ahead.
Super Falcons defender Alozie tackled by the Benin republic defender.Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Just before half-time, Abiodun once again turned provider, threading a superb pass to Esther Okoronkwo, who slotted home to double Nigeria’s advantage.
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The Amazons nearly pulled one back late in the half, but Moumouni’s strike rattled the post to leave the score 2–0 at the break.
The second half proved more balanced, with both sides making tactical changes. Benin increased their intensity, but Nigeria soaked up the pressure efficiently, with Nnadozie again coming to the rescue in the 90th minute, denying Sadikou’s close-range header.
Ihezuo and Okoronkwo celebrating.Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Despite coaching without a formal contract from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Coach Justin Madugu continued his fine run with the Super Falcons, maintaining their unbeaten streak.
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The result gives Nigeria, the record WAFCON champions, a comfortable advantage ahead of the return leg at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Tuesday.
