WHAT HAPPENED?
From the kickoff, the home team seized control, launching a flurry of attacking chances. The visitors, struggling to find their footing, managed their first shot on goal only in the 40th minute, which was well saved by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
However, just before the halftime whistle, Ademola Lookman dazzled with a mesmerising run, slipping past defenders to score and put the Super Eagles 1-0 up as they headed into the break.
In the second half, both teams aimed to seize control, with Benin showing improvement. However, Benin’s task became even tougher when Victor Osimhen extended the home side’s lead to 2-0 in the 78th minute. Shortly after, Lookman added his second goal, sealing a 3-0 victory for the Super Eagles.
Victor Osimhen—playing his first game of any description since May—needs just six minutes to score off the bench for Nigeria. 🔥
Transfer saga finally over (for now), it’s refreshing to see Osimhen doing what he does best. Unless you’re a Chelsea fan 🫣pic.twitter.com/WiQhhfSLuV
— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) September 7, 2024
The Super Eagles clinched a silver medal at the last Afcon in Ivory Coast and are now battling for a spot in the continent’s premier tournament once again.
They’re in Group D, alongside Benin, Rwanda, and Libya.
Nigeria will now turn their attention to their second group stage match in the Afcon qualifiers.
They’re set to travel to Amahoro Stadium to face Rwanda on Tuesday, September 10.
Source goal.com