The Super Eagles of Nigeria, inspired by standout performances from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in their AFCON 2025 qualifier, avenging a previous defeat in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Lookman, who plays for Atalanta and is a Ballon d’Or nominee, set the tone for the match with a brilliant solo goal late in the first half, breaking the deadlock after sustained pressure from Nigeria. His dazzling run and finish showcased his individual skill, energizing the Super Eagles and their fans.
Victor Osimhen, who came off the bench in the second half, made an immediate impact. The Galatasaray striker, recently in the headlines due to his high-profile transfer saga, doubled Nigeria’s lead with a stunning goal that demonstrated his world-class talent.
Lookman continued his exceptional performance by netting a second goal, securing his brace and putting the result beyond doubt. The 3-0 scoreline was a fair reflection of Nigeria’s dominance, as they comfortably controlled the match from start to finish at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Starting Lineups:
Nigeria XI: William Troost-Ekong, Alex Iwobi, Semi Ajayi, Ola Aina, Wilfred Ndidi, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Calvin Bassey, Victor Boniface, Bruno Onyemaechi, Stanley Nwabali.
Substitutes: Moses Simon, Kelechi Iheanacho, Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Osimhen, Frank Onyeka, Maduka Okoye, Alhassan Yusuf, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Raphael Onyedika, Olisa Ndah, Benjamin Tanimu, Amas Obasogie.
Benin XI: Cédric Hountondji, Steve Mounie, Youssouf Kiki, Sessi D’Almeida, Olivier Verdon, Aiyegun Tosin, Marcel Dandjinou, Junior Olaitan, Dokou Dodo, Hassane Imourane, Abdoul Rachid Moumini.
Substitutes: Saturnin Allagbé, Jodel Dossou, Yohan Roche, Mattéo Ahlinvi, Rodrigue Fassinou, Steve Traoré, Andreas Hountondji, Rabiou Sankamao, Romaric Amoussou, Mariano Ahouangbo, Rahman Karim Abdoul Aziz, S. Attidjikou.
The victory marks a strong start to Nigeria’s AFCON qualifying campaign, with Lookman and Osimhen proving to be pivotal figures in their quest for continental success.
