Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered an impressive performance, defeating Benin Republic 3-0 in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign on Saturday in Uyo. Ademola Lookman, a 2024 Ballon d’Or nominee, was the star of the show, scoring a brace, while substitute Victor Osimhen added another goal.
Lookman opened the scoring just before halftime with a solo effort, giving Nigeria a slender lead at the break. Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen made several substitutions in the second half, including bringing on Osimhen in the 72nd minute. The Galatasaray striker made an immediate impact, scoring with his first touch to double Nigeria’s advantage.
Lookman then sealed the victory with his second goal in the 85th minute, securing a comfortable 3-0 win for the Super Eagles. This result avenged Nigeria’s previous 2-1 defeat to Benin in a 2026 World Cup qualifier back in June.
The win puts Nigeria at the top of Group D, which also includes Rwanda and Libya, who played out a draw on Friday. The Super Eagles will now travel to Kigali to face Rwanda on Tuesday, September 10, at 2 p.m. local time, as they continue their quest for AFCON qualification.
Lookman’s impressive performance, which included a brace, has further solidified his status as a 2024 Ballon d’Or nominee. The Atalanta winger has now scored seven goals for Nigeria since making his debut in March 2022, second only to Victor Osimhen during that period.