Nigeria 3-0 Benin Republic – The Super Eagles of Nigeria started their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in the most emphatic way possible, with a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. After months of waiting for a victory, this performance brought a sigh of relief to Nigerian fans and renewed optimism about the team’s prospects moving forward.
This match wasn’t just about the three points; it symbolized Nigeria’s hunger for dominance in African football, as they look to rebuild their stature and consistency. The win, orchestrated by the brilliance of Ademola Lookman, the heroics of Stanley Nwabali, and the sheer impact of Victor Osimhen, signalled a new wave of hope.
Let’s break down the game, from its buildup to the key moments that defined this memorable match.
READ MORE: Onyinyechi Mark Sets Multiple World Records to Win GOLD in Para-Powerlifting at Paris 2024
Pre-Match Build-Up: A Tense Rivalry Resumes
Heading into the game, expectations were high. The Super Eagles had not tasted victory in almost six months, and there were whispers of discontent among fans. Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen was tasked with turning the team’s fortunes around after their struggles in recent months. Standing in his way was Gernot Rohr, the former Super Eagles coach, who now led Benin Republic. Rohr had masterminded a 2-1 upset win over Nigeria in their previous meeting, and he hoped to repeat the feat on his return to face his old team.
This match also had broader implications beyond AFCON qualifiers. Nigeria and Benin Republic are also grouped together in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, adding an extra layer of intensity to this encounter. With both teams eager to assert dominance, the stage was set for a fiery clash.
Nigeria, however, came into the game as clear favourites, boasting a full squad that included top European-based stars like Victor Osimhen, William Troost-Ekong, and Simon Moses. But football is played on the pitch, not on paper, and the Super Eagles knew that only a focused, disciplined performance would see them past a determined Benin Republic side.
First Half: Ademola Lookman Breaks the Deadlock
As the match kicked off, both teams started cautiously, feeling each other out in the opening stages. The Super Eagles sought to assert their dominance early on, but the Cheetahs of Benin Republic, organized by Rohr, kept their shape and defended well. Nigeria enjoyed much of the possession, but clear-cut chances were hard to come by in the first 30 minutes.
Benin Republic showed flashes of danger on the counter-attack, and they almost capitalized on a rare defensive lapse from Nigeria. However, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali came to the rescue, making a crucial save to deny what could have been a shock opener for Benin.
The game seemed destined to go into halftime with no goals, but Ademola Lookman had other plans. Just before the halftime whistle, the Atalanta winger produced a moment of magic. Latching onto a well-weighted pass, Lookman beat his marker with a deft touch before slotting the ball past the Benin goalkeeper, Dandjinou, to give Nigeria a 1-0 lead.
The relief in the stadium was palpable, and the timing of the goal was perfect for the Super Eagles. It allowed them to go into the break with the momentum firmly on their side, knowing they had cracked open Benin’s defense.
Nwabali’s Heroics: A Game-Changer Between the Posts
While Lookman’s goal provided the spark, it was goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali who kept Nigeria in control throughout the match. The South African-based shot-stopper delivered a performance that solidified his position as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper. His calm presence at the back and his incredible reflexes kept Benin at bay, especially in the second half when they started piling on the pressure.
Nwabali made several key saves to deny the Cheetahs any chance of equalizing. His agility and quick thinking in goal were on full display, as he thwarted dangerous shots and crosses that could have easily turned the tide of the game. Time after time, Benin Republic tried to find a way past him, but Nwabali stood tall, ensuring that Nigeria maintained their slender lead.
Many fans and pundits alike have praised his performance, with some calling him the standout performer of the match. With the level of competition for the goalkeeper position in the national team, Nwabali’s display against Benin will no doubt have boosted his credentials, making it hard for anyone to dethrone him from the No.1 spot.
Second Half: Osimhen, the Cheat Code
The introduction of Victor Osimhen in the second half was, as always, a masterstroke. Coming off the bench just past the hour mark, Osimhen wasted no time in announcing his presence. Six minutes after entering the field, the Napoli forward doubled Nigeria’s lead in typical Osimhen fashion—effortlessly, yet devastatingly.
Wilfred Ndidi, who was pulling the strings in midfield, delivered a beautiful pass that found Osimhen in space. With his trademark composure, Osimhen took a touch and fired a low shot past Dandjinou to make it 2-0. His celebration said it all—this was a man who thrives in the spotlight, a striker who lives for the big moments.
Osimhen’s goal effectively sealed the win for Nigeria, and his impact was undeniable. Despite playing less than 30 minutes, he influenced the game as though he had been on the pitch the entire match. His power, pace, and ability to sniff out goal-scoring opportunities make him one of the most feared forwards in world football.
As Nigeria’s talisman, Osimhen continues to show why he is invaluable to the team. His form and fitness will be crucial as the Super Eagles look ahead to tougher challenges in their AFCON qualifying campaign and the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Lookman Completes His Brace: 3-0 Nigeria
Not content with just one goal, Ademola Lookman put the final nail in the coffin late in the game, scoring his second and Nigeria’s third. With the Benin Republic pushing forward in search of a consolation goal, they left gaps in their defense, which Nigeria ruthlessly exploited.
In the 85th minute, Lookman found himself in space once again, this time after a slick counter-attack initiated by Moses Simon. With only the goalkeeper to beat, Lookman calmly slotted the ball home, capping off a brilliant individual performance with a brace.
This goal was the icing on the cake for Nigeria, as they cruised to a well-deserved 3-0 victory. For Lookman, this performance was a reminder of his quality and importance to the national team. His pace, creativity, and eye for goal will be key assets for Nigeria in the long term.
A Statement Win for Nigeria
This 3-0 win was exactly what Nigeria needed—a statement victory that reminded everyone of the Super Eagles’ potential. Augustine Eguavoen deserves credit for getting his tactics spot-on, utilizing the squad’s strengths to break down a well-organized Benin Republic side.
For Gernot Rohr and his Benin team, it was a sobering evening. Despite their efforts to contain Nigeria, the quality of players like Lookman and Osimhen proved too much to handle.
This result will boost the confidence of the Super Eagles as they continue their AFCON qualifying campaign. With strong performances from key players and the team’s defensive solidity, Nigeria can approach future matches with renewed belief.
