2026 WAFCON Qualifier: Nigeria take commanding lead over Benin 

Nigeria hold a strong advantage over Benin after a composed first-half performance earned them a 2–0 lead in the first leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie in Lomé.

The Super Falcons, record ten-time champions of the continent, asserted their superiority from the opening whistle at Stade de Kégué in Togo.

Their early pressure consistently pushed the Beninese defence deep into their own territory, as Nigeria sought to establish control through confident possession and determined attacking play.

The breakthrough nearly arrived inside the first 20 minutes when a powerful strike from the Nigerian attack rattled the crossbar, drawing gasps from the crowd and serving as a warning to Benin’s defenders that the pressure was only building.

Just four minutes later, the dominance was rewarded.

Chinwendu Ihezuo produced a moment of precision and composure, lifting a clever lob past the Benin goalkeeper following an incisive pass from midfielder Deborah Abiodun.

The goal was a reflection of Nigeria’s sharp movement and incisive forward play, placing them firmly in command.

Benin, who entered the match as clear underdogs, struggled to keep pace with Nigeria’s intensity and found few opportunities to break out of their own half.

Occasional counter-attacks were quickly halted as the Super Falcons remained disciplined at the back, refusing to allow their opponents any momentum.

As the first period approached its conclusion, Nigeria delivered what may prove to be a crucial second goal.

In stoppage time, Esther Okoronkwo seized on another expertly weighted pass from Abiodun.

Driving into the box and keeping her composure in the one-on-one situation, she finished confidently to double the lead and deepen Benin’s challenge.

With that, Nigeria returned to the dressing room in full control, knowing they had already taken a significant step toward qualification.

The Super Falcons’ experience on the continental stage has been evident throughout, with their precision in attack matched by tactical discipline.

Benin now face the daunting task of trying to overturn a two-goal deficit in the second leg, while containing a Nigerian side that has shown no intention of easing up.

As the qualifier continues, Nigeria appear firmly positioned to push forward in their quest for yet another appearance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while Benin must regroup quickly if they are to keep their hopes alive.