Goals from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen propelled Nigeria’s Super Eagles to a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in their opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifiers, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.
Nigeria commenced their journey towards qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a convincing 3-0 win over Benin at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The Super Eagles shook off their World Cup qualification challenges, delighting their fans with two goals from Ballon d'Or nominee Ademola Lookman and a volley from substitute Victor Osimhen, leading to a decisive victory against the Squirrels of Benin on Saturday.
Lookman's impressive solo run and strike just before halftime eased the tension among Super Eagles supporters, who had begun to express their frustration within the 'Nest of Champions.'
The Atalanta forward was dynamic throughout the match, delivering a standout performance during the week he was named on the shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d'Or awards.
Just minutes after entering as a substitute, new Galatasaray signing Victor Osimhen demonstrated his prowess as a top striker on the continent. He volleyed in a cross from Ndidi, extending Nigeria's lead in the 79th minute.
Five minutes later, Lookman capped off the victory with a header from a cross by Moses Simon.
The jubilant atmosphere in the Godswill Akpabio Stadium was a stark contrast to the disappointment felt by Nigerians when the same Benin team had previously defeated the Super Eagles in June during a World Cup qualifying match.
That loss, along with a poor start to World Cup qualification, prompted former Nigeria coach Finidi George to announce his resignation, citing various reasons.
This latest win also marked the first defeat for Gernot Rohr's side in their initial AFCON qualification match within a group that includes Libya and Rwanda.
The victory was particularly satisfying for interim coach Austin Eguavoen, who is currently leading the Super Eagles while negotiations with German coach Bruno Labbadia are ongoing.
As it stands, Nigeria leads the group with three points, while Rwanda and Libya each have one point, with all four teams having played one match..
Nigeria will be in action on Tuesday, September 10, where they will face Rwanda, while Benin will compete against Libya on the same day