Just days after the Super Eagles dumped the Cheetahs of Benin in a 2026 World Cup qualifier, the Super Falcons also flew past the Amazons of Benin today in a 2026 WAFCON eliminator.
The return leg will be played in Abeokuta Tuesday with the overall winners marching on next year’s WAFCON, which will serve as a qualifying tournament for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Mexico-based striker Chinwendu Ihezuo fired Nigeria ahead against hosts Benin in Lome today in the 23rd minute courtesy of a through ball by Deborah Abiodun.
The energetic Abiodun also provided the assist for Esther Okoronkwo to chip past the Benin shot stopper in the closing minutes of the first half.
The spirited Benin ladies also had their chances to get on the scoreboard through their main striker Moumini.
She was denied by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and soon after the Brighton goalkeeper was pushed against her post a shot by the lively Benin star.
In the second half, Benin literally parked the bus to avoid a scandalous home loss to the 10-time African champions.
Super Falcons Starting XI vs Benin (4-3-3)
Nnadozie – Alozie, Plumptre, Ohale, Demehin – Abiodun (Oladipo 84), Afolabi (Ucheibe 80), Okoronkwo (Oshoala 80) – Ajibade (Captain), Ihezuo (Omewa 80), Ijamilusi
