In a commanding display, the Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers at the Godswil Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.
This win marked a sweet revenge for the Super Eagles, who had previously lost 2-1 to Benin Republic in June during a World Cup qualifier.
Match Strategy and Lineup
Interim manager Augustine Eguavoen opted for a 3-4-3 formation, with Victor Boniface leading the attack, supported by Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze on the flanks. The defensive line consisted of Captain William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Semi Ajayi, while Ola Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi played as wingbacks. Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi controlled the midfield.
First Half Highlights
Despite a cautious start, the Super Eagles eventually broke through Benin Republic’s defense. Ademola Lookman scored a brilliant individual goal just before halftime, showcasing his exceptional dribbling skills to evade three markers and beat the goalkeeper with a low drive. This goal was Lookman’s seventh for Nigeria since his debut in March 2022.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made a crucial save before the end of the first half to maintain Nigeria’s lead.
Second Half and Final Goals
In the second half, Benin Republic pushed hard to equalize, but the Super Eagles’ defense held firm. Eguavoen made strategic substitutions, introducing Olisa Ndah, Moses Simon, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru to replace Bassey, Chukwueze, and Iwobi. Victor Osimhen, who came off the bench to replace Boniface, doubled Nigeria’s advantage in the 79th minute with a well-placed strike following a low cross from Ndidi.
Lookman sealed the victory with his second goal in the 83rd minute, scoring with a well-placed header to make it 3-0 for the Super Eagles.
Upcoming Match
This convincing win sets the Super Eagles up well for their next match against Rwanda on Tuesday in Kigali. The team’s strong performance is a positive sign for their chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON tournamen
