Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen delivered stellar performances as Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a convincing 3-0 victory over the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Saturday, saw Lookman and Osimhen lead Nigeria to an emphatic win, showcasing their prowess and providing an electrifying start to their AFCON qualifying campaign.
Ademola Lookman was in sensational form, breaking the deadlock with a brilliant solo effort in the 23rd minute. The Atalanta winger’s composure and skill in front of goal were evident as he dribbled past three Benin defenders before slotting the ball into the net.
Despite a series of chances for both sides, including a superb save by Benin’s goalkeeper Saturnin Alagbe to deny Samuel Chukwueze and a crucial stop by Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali against Steve Mounie’s free-kick, Lookman continued to shine.
Victor Osimhen, who came on as a substitute, added Nigeria’s second goal in the 78th minute. The powerful striker showcased his lethal finishing ability, converting a pass from Wilfred Ndidi to double the lead.
Lookman wasn’t finished yet; he netted his second of the game in the 82nd minute, cementing Nigeria’s commanding 3-0 victory.
With this result, Nigeria kicked off their AFCON 2025 qualifiers with a statement win. The Super Eagles will next face Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Tuesday, looking to build on this impressive performance.
Other Key Results: Cameroon 1-0 Namibia: In Garoua, Cameroon edged out Namibia with a solitary goal from Vincent Aboubakar in the 65th minute. Aboubakar capitalized on a rebound from Bryan Mbeumo’s parried shot to secure the win. Despite Namibia's late pressure and missed chances, Cameroon held firm for the three points.
Mauritania 1-0 Botswana: Mauritania clinched a last-minute victory over Botswana in Nouakchott. Sidi Amar’s 84th-minute strike, set up by Beyatt Lekoueiry, was the difference in a closely contested match. Despite a strong defensive effort from Botswana, Mauritania secured all three points with a crucial late goal.
