The Super Eagles of Nigeria have begun their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a convincing 3-0 win over the Cheetahs Benin of Republic in Uyo on Saturday. Ademola Lookman celebrated his Balon D’or nomination by scoring two goals as reigning African footballer of the year, Victor Osimhen also registered his name on the score sheet.
The AFCON 2024 finalist dominated the game at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium as the visitors sat back early on. Ademola Lookman missed an early opportunity to put Nigeria ahead in the 17th minute after being set up by midfielder Wilfred Ndidi.
Two minutes before the half-hour mark, AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze was denied by a superb save from Benin Republic’s goalkeeper Saturnin Alagbe from a free kick. On the other end, Super Eagles’ goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had to be alert to stop Steve Mounie’s free-kick five minutes before halftime.
With the first half winding down, Lookman delivered a moment of brilliance, dribbling past three Cheetahs’ defenders before firing the ball into the net to give Nigeria the lead. Early in the second half, Nigeria had another chance, but Lookman squandered it. Benin Republic began to grow into the game, with Steve Mounie testing Nwabali from inside the box.
Substitute Victor Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s lead 12 minutes from time, calmly slotting the ball home after assist from Ndidi. Lookman then scored his second goal and eight overall goal for the Super Eagles in the 82nd minute to seal the victory for Nigeria.
The Super Eagles will next face the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Tuesday.
![President Cyril Ramaphosa received by His Excellency President Xi Jimping and First Lady Peng Liyuan at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing at the Welcoming Banquet in Honour of Heads of State and Government participating at the FOCAC Summit. [Phots: GCIS]](https://theafricadailypost.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/53972844260_7e9978dd98_k-1-150x150.jpg)
