**Nigeria 3-0 Benin: Match Ratings – Lookman Shines, Nwabali Impressive, Troost-Ekong Solid**
The Super Eagles avenged their June defeat to Benin with a commanding 3-0 victory in the opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. After a challenging period for the Nigerian team, the win provided a much-needed boost, showcasing their strength against a resilient Benin side.
Goals from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen secured the three points for the three-time African champions, as they kicked off their AFCON campaign in style. Here’s a breakdown of how the Super Eagles players performed on the night:
### **Player Ratings:**
**Stanley Nwabali (8/10)**
The Chippa United goalkeeper delivered a solid performance, keeping a clean sheet. Despite an early scare from a poor first touch, Nwabali recovered well and made several key saves, including a crucial point-blank stop from Steve Mounie.
**William Troost-Ekong (7.3/10)**
As captain, Troost-Ekong led the defense with calmness and authority. Apart from a brief lapse in communication, he was dependable at the back and provided a stabilizing presence throughout the match.
**Semi Ajayi (7.6/10)**
Ajayi had an assured performance, marked by strong defensive work and impressive long-range passing that helped open up play for Nigeria. His composure on the ball made a significant difference.
**Calvin Bassey (7/10)**
Bassey had a good game overall, although he wasn’t tested too much defensively. He received a yellow card for handball under pressure, but otherwise, he was solid in his duties.
**Ola Aina (7.1/10)**
The Nottingham Forest defender had a strong outing, particularly in defense where he was reliable and difficult to beat. He initially struggled in the final third but grew into the game as it progressed.
**Bruno Onyemaechi (7.1/10)**
Onyemaechi put in a solid performance at left-back. Although he could have contributed more offensively, he fulfilled his defensive responsibilities well, keeping the Benin attackers at bay.
**Alex Iwobi (6.9/10)**
Iwobi had a decent game, though he was not at his most creative. His passing was accurate, and he linked up well with Wilfred Ndidi in midfield, but he lacked the spark to unlock Benin’s defense.
**Wilfred Ndidi (7.1/10)**
Ndidi was a reliable presence in midfield, keeping possession well and distributing passes effectively. His decision-making in attacking areas could have been sharper, but his assist for one of Lookman’s goals highlighted his impact.
**Ademola Lookman (9/10)**
Lookman was the star of the show, delivering a dynamic performance that included two well-taken goals. He was a constant threat down the flank, and though he missed a one-on-one chance, his overall contribution to the attack was immense.
**Samuel Chukwueze (6.9/10)**
Chukwueze was lively in the first half, creating opportunities for his teammates. However, he faded as the game went on and saw less of the ball in the second half, leading to a quieter overall performance.
**Victor Boniface (6.9/10)**
Boniface showed flashes of his potential but missed two clear chances to score. His ability to switch positions with Lookman added tactical versatility, although Nigeria sometimes lacked a central presence in the box as a result.
### **Substitutes:**
**Victor Osimhen (7.5/10)**
Osimhen’s introduction in the second half was impactful, as he quickly found the back of the net to score Nigeria’s second goal. Despite missing two more chances to complete a hat-trick, he was a constant threat in the final third.
**Moses Simon (7/10)**
Simon brought energy to Nigeria’s attack after coming on. His pace and delivery from the left flank were key to Lookman’s second goal, showcasing his value as a reliable winger.
**Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (6.8/10)**
Although Nigeria lost some control in midfield after Dele-Bashiru’s introduction, his presence opened up the game. He played an important role in the build-up to Nigeria’s second goal, providing the pre-assist.
**Olisa Ndah (6.7/10)**
Ndah was solid in defense after replacing Bassey. Though he was caught off-guard twice, he recovered well and contributed to maintaining Nigeria’s clean sheet during a period of pressure.
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With this convincing victory, Nigeria have firmly positioned themselves as early favorites in their AFCON qualifying group. Ademola Lookman’s brilliance, combined with the team’s overall solid performance, will give fans optimism as they look forward to the remaining qualifiers.