Ihezuo & Okoronkwo net as Super Falcons dominate Benin in WAFCON qualifier

In the first leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 Qualifiers clash, the Super Falcons secured a commanding 2-0 away victory over the Benin Republic Women’s National Football Team at the Stade Kégué in Lomé, Togo.

The opener arrived in the 24th minute, when Chinwendu Ihezuo lobbed the goalkeeper after a precise assist from Deborah Abiodun.  A short while later, just before the break, Esther Okoronkwo doubled Nigeria’s advantage courtesy of another fine pass from Abiodun.

Although Benin pressed in the second half and showed more determination, the Falcons held firm, seeing out the match without conceding.  Coach Justine Madugu made three substitutions around the 80-minute mark, replacing Ihezuo, Okoronkwo and debutant Taiwo Afolabi with Asisat Oshoala, Joy Omewa and Christy Ucheibe.

With this result, the Super Falcons have given themselves a solid platform ahead of the return leg and remain in a strong position to defend their continental crown.

Editorial

We believe this performance by the Super Falcons reflects more than just victory it speaks of intent, discipline and strategic fulfilment. From the opening whistle, the team asserted control and translated that dominance into tangible reward. The opening goal by Chinwendu Ihezuo was not a mere moment of brilliance but an indication of structured build-up and composure under pressure. Likewise, Esther Okoronkwo’s goal before halftime framed the tie in Nigeria’s favour.

In our view, the substitutions made by Madugu were calculated rather than reactive. By introducing experienced names such as Asisat Oshoala alongside emerging talent like Joy Omewa, the coaching staff balanced the need for presence and progress. We observe that in continental football, transitions often falter when veteran and youth are poorly integrated here it appears to be managed well.

We hold that the mental resilience shown by the Falcons in the second half defending a lead away from home, under expectation is crucial. It is one thing to score; it is quite another to maintain focus, repel pressure and avoid complacency. That they did so speaks to preparation, culture and confidence.

For us, this win sets the scene, but it is not the story’s end. The return leg will demand the same intensity, possibly more. The Falcons must now guard against settling, and continue refining their play. We believe that if they carry this mindset into the second leg, they will not just defend their position but build momentum for the finals.

Did You Know?

1. The Super Falcons hold the record for the most WAFCON titles in history, having won nine championships before this qualification cycle.
2. This first-leg tie was played at the Stade Kégué in Lomé because Benin Republic’s home stadium did not meet the required CAF standards.
3. Deborah Abiodun became the first Nigerian player in this qualification campaign to register two assists in a single match for the senior women’s national team.
4. The return leg for this qualifier is scheduled in Nigeria, giving the Super Falcons the home-ground advantage and crowd support.
5. Chinwendu Ihezuo’s lob in the 24th minute was her first senior international goal at a competitive senior women’s tournament level.