Nigeria’s Super Eagles kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a commanding 3-0 win over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday. Goals from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen secured the victory for the 2024 AFCON runners-up.
Lookman, recently nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, celebrated the milestone in style with two well-taken goals. The Beninese defense held strong for much of the first half, but the Atalanta forward broke the deadlock in added time, escaping his markers to fire home and give Nigeria a 1-0 lead heading into the break.
Victor Osimhen, who recently completed a high-profile transfer to Galatasaray following a transfer saga involving Napoli, Chelsea, and Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli, made an instant impact after coming off the bench. The reigning African Footballer of the Year extended Nigeria’s lead in the 78th minute with a stunning half-volley, expertly connecting with a Wilfred Ndidi cross to make it 2-0.
Lookman completed his brace in the 83rd minute, heading in a well-placed cross from Simon Moses to seal the 3-0 win. His goal capped a dominant performance by Nigeria and ensured interim coach Augustine Eguavoen began his latest stint in charge on a high note.
Eguavoen, who took over after a last-minute collapse in negotiations between the Nigeria Football Federation and German coach Bruno Labbadia, guided the team to victory over a Benin side that had previously beaten Nigeria 2-1 in a World Cup qualifier in June.
