Nigeria moved to top of group D in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifiers with a resounding 3-0 win over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.
The emphatic win today gave the Super Eagles the much needed 3 points that took them to the top of group D with 3 points. Rwanda and Libya shares the second and third place in the log with one point each while Benin Republic sits at the bottom of the group.
Goals from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen sealed the victory, marking a convincing start to the campaign under interim coach Augustine Eguavoen.
READ MORE: Osimhen closes in on 22-year-old Super Eagles record with superb volley against Benin Republic
Lookman, fresh from his 2024 Ballon d’Or nomination, stole the show with two expertly taken goals. The Atalanta star broke the deadlock in added time of the first half, showcasing his skill with a creative escape from Beninese defenders. He sealed the win with his second goal in the 83rd minute, meeting Moses Simon’s cross with a precise header.
Victor osimhen and Ademola Lookman stole the show as Nigeria demolished Benin Republic to go top of group D
Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, reminded fans of his prowess with an incredible half-volley in the 78th minute. The Galatasaray striker connected perfectly with Wilfred Ndidi’s pass, leaving the Beninese goalkeeper with no chance.
The Cheetahs posed some attacking threats, but goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was equal to the task, making crucial saves to maintain Nigeria’s clean sheet.
Eguavoen’s tenure began on a high note, avenging the Super Eagles’ 2-1 loss to Benin Republic in a World Cup qualifier in June. The win marks a promising start to the AFCON qualifiers, with Nigeria aiming to secure a spot in the 2025 tournament in Morocco.
The Super Eagles’ next match promises to be an exciting encounter, and fans will be eager to see if they can maintain their momentum. With Osimhen and Lookman in top form, Nigeria looks poised for a successful campaign.
The Super Eagles will take on Rwanda away from home on Tuesday evening.
