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Nigeria’s Super Falcons took a big step towards qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Benin Republic’s Amazons 2-0 in the first leg of their qualifier on Friday in Lomé, Togo.
Forwards Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo scored first-half goals to hand the nine-time African champions a comfortable victory.
The Super Falcons started brightly, with Rasheedat Ajibade almost giving Nigeria an early lead in the 6th minute when her lobbed effort came off the crossbar. Two minutes later, Folashade Ijamilusi forced a fine save from Benin’s goalkeeper Ogoun.
Nigeria’s dominance paid off in the 23rd minute when Deborah Abiodun threaded a clever pass to Ihezuo, who calmly slotted home to make it 1-0.
Benin came close to equalising in the 36th minute through Moumouni, but Chiamaka Nnadozie made a crucial save to preserve Nigeria’s lead.
Just before half-time, Abiodun once again played the perfect pass — this time to Okoronkwo, who finished neatly to double the advantage in stoppage time. The Amazons almost pulled one back before the break, but Moumouni’s shot hit the post.
The second half was more balanced as both teams made tactical changes. Benin pressed hard for a goal, but Nigeria’s defence stayed solid, with Nnadozie producing another fine save in the 90th minute to deny Sadikou.
The 2-0 victory gives the Super Falcons a strong advantage ahead of the return leg, which will be played on Tuesday at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta.
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