The Super Falcons of Nigeria secured a 2-0 victory over Benin Republic in the first leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Stade de Kegue on Friday.
Nigeria began the match on the front foot, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade rattling the post in the seventh minute.
The Benin goalkeeper was called into action multiple times, denying the visitors several promising opportunities.
Chiwendu Ihezuo broke the deadlock in the 24th minute, finishing neatly after a precise assist from Deborah Abiodun.
The Super Falcons kept pressing, but the hosts held firm defensively.
Late in the first half, Esther Okoronkwo doubled Nigeria’s lead, once again benefiting from Abiodun’s creative play.
Despite dominating possession and creating chances in the second half, Nigeria were unable to extend their advantage further.
The two sides will meet again next Tuesday at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta for the second leg.
