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.

Nigeria vs Benin Highlights

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) board has addressed the controversy surrounding Heartland FC’s return to the top flight for the 2024/25 season, clarifying that no financial exchange influenced their decision to allocate Beyond Limits Football Academy’s top-flight spot to Heartland.

On Tuesday, the NPFL announced that Beyond Limits would not be permitted to compete in the top tier due to concerns over dual ownership interests with Remo Stars, a club already participating in the NPFL. As a result, Heartland FC, relegated last season, was selected to take their place.

The NPFL board explained that this decision was based on Rule A5.2, which outlines the participation criteria for clubs. Heartland FC met all the necessary requirements and was the only relegated team that expressed interest in filling the vacancy.

The board further emphasized that no slot-buying occurred, as such actions are strictly prohibited by NPFL regulations. The league reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a fair and competitive environment.

Beyond Limits Football Academy has accepted the board’s ruling and will compete in the Nigeria National League for the 2024/25 season. Meanwhile, Heartland FC has been gearing up for their return to the NPFL, playing pre-season matches and preparing for their opening game at home against Enyimba.

The NPFL board’s decision has clarified the situation, reassuring fans ahead of the new season. Their firm stance on fairness and adherence to the rules reinforces the league’s integrity.

With the upcoming season promising thrilling matches and surprises, attention now shifts to the pitch. Will Heartland FC make the most of their second chance, or will other teams rise to the occasion? Time will tell as the competition unfolds.

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has officially announced that the first transfer window for the 2024/2025 season will close on September 5th, 2024. This information was shared by the NPFL board via their official Twitter account.

As the transfer window nears its end, this marks the final chance for NPFL clubs to strengthen their squads ahead of the new season. Teams across the league have been actively involved in the transfer market, aiming to enhance their rosters for what is expected to be another fiercely competitive season in Nigerian top-flight football.

Rangers International, the reigning champions of the 2023/2024 NPFL season, are among the clubs making strategic signings to maintain their dominance. The Enugu-based side is determined to defend their title and continue their successful run in the upcoming campaign, with the transfer window playing a vital role in their preparations.

With the deadline fast approaching, clubs are working tirelessly to finalize any last-minute deals, with several key players likely to make moves before the window closes. The NPFL board’s announcement has intensified the ongoing negotiations as teams race against time to complete their squads.

As fans eagerly anticipate the start of the 2024/2025 NPFL season, all eyes will be on how the new signings will influence the league. The closure of the transfer window on September 5th will pave the way for the kickoff of what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable season in Nigerian football.