Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a 2–0 victory over the Amazons of Benin Republic in the first leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Lomé on Friday night.
Chiwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo scored the goals for the reigning African champions.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade came close to opening the scoring for Nigeria after seven minutes, but her effort struck the crossbar. Folashade Ijamilusi was also denied moments later by a last-ditch clearance.
The breakthrough came in the 24th minute when Ihezuo lobbed the ball past the home side’s goalkeeper after being set up by a superb pass from Deborah Abiodun.
The hosts nearly equalised in the 35th minute, but Chiamaka Nnadozie, in goal for Nigeria, produced a magnificent save to deny them.
Nigeria doubled their advantage late in the first half, with Okoronkwo producing a fine finish following another assist from Abiodun.
No goal was recorded in the second half despite the Super Falcons maintaining their dominance throughout.
The reverse fixture will take place at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta, next Tuesday.
