Super Falcons are back! Esther Okoronkwo and Ihezuo gun down neighbours Benin for Nigeria

The reigning African champions, Nigeria's Super Falcons, launched their campaign for the 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title defence with a comfortable 2-0 victory over the Benin Republic's Amazons in the first leg of their final qualifying fixture on Friday evening. 

Two clinical first-half goals from forwards Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo secured the vital away win, with midfield sensation Deborah Abiodun providing the creative force behind both strikes.

Head Coach Justine Madugu's promise of an aggressive, goal-seeking performance was delivered in the first half at the Stade de Kégué in Lomè, Togo. 

The Super Falcons' relentless attack eventually broke the Beninese defence just past the midway point of the half.

The opening goal arrived in the 24th minute through striker Ihezuo. The powerful forward collected a brilliant floated pass from midfielder Abiodun before calmly executing a lovely lob over the advancing goalkeeper into the net.

The Super Falcons doubled their advantage right before the halftime whistle in the 45th minute. Once again, the creativity stemmed from the midfield, with Abiodun supplying another decisive pass that found Esther Okoronkwo. 

Okoronkwo finished smartly, after a delicious control, giving Nigeria a crucial two-goal cushion to take into the break.

Despite Nigeria’s dominance, the Benin Amazons were not without their chances, threatening to breach the Super Falcons’ backline on a few occasions. 

In the first half, the Beninese side rattled the woodwork, serving a stark reminder of the need for defensive concentration.

However, Africa's finest goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, showcased why she remains one of the best in the world. 

The shot-stopper pulled off several fantastic saves, including a pivotal stop in the first half and a late, brilliant save in the 89th minute to preserve her crucial clean sheet. 

Nnadozie’s clean sheet ensures that Benin will need to score at least three goals in the return leg to overturn the deficit.