Nigeria soared to the top of Group D in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with a dominant 3-0 victory over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.
This crucial win gave the Super Eagles a valuable 3 points, propelling them to the group’s top. Rwanda and Libya sit in second and third places, respectively, with one point each, while Benin Republic finds itself at the bottom.
Goals from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen secured the victory, marking a strong start to the campaign under interim coach Augustine Eguavoen.
Lookman, fresh off his 2024 Ballon d’Or nomination, was the standout performer with two brilliantly executed goals. The Atalanta forward opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time, breaking through Benin’s defense with skillful play. He later sealed the win in the 83rd minute, connecting with a pinpoint cross from Moses Simon to head in his second of the game.
Victor Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, also shined with a stunning half-volley in the 78th minute. The Galatasaray striker latched onto a perfectly timed pass from Wilfred Ndidi, leaving the Benin goalkeeper helpless.
Although the Cheetahs posed occasional threats, Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali kept them at bay with crucial saves, ensuring a clean sheet for the home side.
Eguavoen’s tenure got off to an ideal start, avenging Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat to Benin in a World Cup qualifier in June. This victory signals a promising beginning to the AFCON qualifiers, with Nigeria aiming to secure their place in the 2025 tournament in Morocco.
As the Super Eagles prepare to face Rwanda in an away match on Tuesday, fans are hopeful that the team can maintain their winning momentum. With Osimhen and Lookman in top form, Nigeria is well-positioned for a successful campaign.
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