Falcons defeat Benin Republic in first leg of WAFCON qualifier

The Super Falcons of Nigeria have defeated the Republic of Benin 2-0 in the first leg of their qualifiers for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo secured Nigeria’s comfortable win at the Stade de Kégué in Lome, Togo, on Friday.

Falcons began the journey to defend their WAFCON triumph with an overwhelming performance against Benin who hosted the game at a neutral ground due to their local stadiums falling short of CAF standard.

Within the first 10 minutes of the match, Rasheedat Ajibade’s lob effort struck the woodwork and another shot from Folashade Ijamilusi was parried by the Benin goalkeeper.

But in the 24th minute, the Falcons were too direct to be denied again. Deborah Abiodun played Ihezuo on goal and the striker scooped the ball over the goalkeeper and into the net.

On the stroke of halftime, Abiodun supplied another assist to double Nigeria’s lead. The midfielder found Esther Okoronkwo inside the box and the CAF women’s player of the year nominee finished expertly.

Nigeria will host the return leg of the encounter at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Tuesday.

The winner of the tie will qualify for 2026 WAFCON in Morocco.

The tournament is scheduled for March 17 through April 3.