Ademola Lookman scored twice to inspire Nigeria’s Super Eagles to a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Saturday.
The win marks a positive start for interim coach Austin Eguavoen as Nigeria seeks qualification for the tournament in Morocco.
The Atalanta winger was the standout performer, punishing a lapse in Benin’s defense to open the scoring just before halftime. Lookman capitalised on a loose ball, dribbled into the box, and calmly slotted into the bottom corner to give Nigeria a 1-0 lead at the break.
Nigeria dominated the match, creating several chances but was denied by a combination of wasteful finishing and Benin’s goalkeeper, Marcel Dandjinou.
Victor Boniface missed the target on multiple occasions, while Samuel Chukwueze’s well-placed free-kick was tipped over by Dandjinou.
The Benin goalkeeper also made a crucial save at Boniface’s feet following a dangerous cross from Lookman.
Lookman missed an opportunity to double his tally early in the second half after rounding the goalkeeper but failing to get a shot away.
Benin nearly capitalised on Nigeria’s missed chances, with Steve Mounie testing Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who made two quick saves to keep the visitors at bay.
The Super Eagles’ second goal came from substitute Victor Osimhen, who ended his six-game goal drought for the national team.
The Galatasaray striker volleyed home to make it 2-0, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Lookman completed his brace in the 85th minute, sealing a well-deserved win and putting Nigeria firmly on top of Group D in the AFCON qualifiers.
The victory also avenges Nigeria’s previous 2-1 loss to Benin in Abidjan, setting a strong tone for the road to Morocco 2025.
Benin Republic, meanwhile, remains at the bottom of the group after the first match of the series, as Nigeria takes all three points in a dominant performance.
