Ademola Lookman And Victor Osimhen Inspire Super Eagles’ Dominant Win Over Benin Republic.
The Super Eagles delivered a resounding victory on Saturday evening, bringing joy to millions of Nigerians by comfortably defeating the Cheetahs of Benin Republic 3-0 in their opening match of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, showcased the clinical brilliance of Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, who were instrumental in securing the crucial win.
The game began with both teams showing promise, creating several opportunities. However, it was Nigeria’s pace and pressing intensity that put the Cheetahs under pressure. Despite missing an earlier chance, Lookman made amends by breaking the deadlock in added time of the first half, skillfully weaving through the Benin defence and slotting the ball past the goalkeeper with a low drive.
In the second half, the Super Eagles came out with even more intent. The attacking trio of Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Boniface, and Lookman kept Benin’s defence on edge, continuously probing for more goals. Interim coach Austin Eguavoen introduced Victor Osimhen in the 72nd minute, replacing Boniface. The substitution paid off just six minutes later, as Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, coolly netted Nigeria’s second goal, giving the Super Eagles a comfortable lead.
With a two-goal cushion, the Super Eagles shifted into cruise control, dominating possession while the Cheetahs struggled to cope with the high tempo of the match. Lookman put the final nail in Benin’s coffin in the 83rd minute, rising to head home a pinpoint cross from Moses Simon, sealing his brace and capping off a perfect evening for Nigeria.
The win gives the Super Eagles maximum points on Matchday One, as they now look ahead to their next fixture against Rwanda in Kigali on Tuesday, with kickoff scheduled for 2 pm Nigerian time.
