Nigeria’s Super Eagles won 3-0 over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday to kick off the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifiers.
Lookman, who was recently nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards, scored two goals that helped the 2024 AFCON runners-up advance to Morocco for the next edition.
The Beninese believed they had done enough to keep the score 0-0 following a spirited defensive performance, but the Atalanta of Italy star broke the deadlock in the extra time of the first half after brilliantly escaping from the Beninese defenders to release a short.
The Eagles’ other goal was scored by Osimhen, who recently joined Galatasaray in Turkey after a transfer controversy involving Napoli, Chelsea, and Saudi Al Ahli.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year reminded everyone of his abilities with a spectacular goal in the 78th minute, shortly after replacing Victor Boniface.
Osimhen connected solidly with the ball for a stunning half-volley after Wilfred Ndidi played the ball into the Beninese box, making it 2-0 for Nigeria.
Lookman clinched the victory in the 83rd minute with his second of the day, meeting a Simon Moses cross with his head and placing the ball on the top right angle of the post, beyond the keeper.
The result means that interim coach Augustine Eguavoen begins his second term with the Eagles with a convincing win over a squad who defeated Nigeria 2-1 in a World Cup qualifier in June.
The Nigeria Football Federation and German coach Bruno Labbadia were unable to reach an agreement due to tax difficulties, prompting Eguavoen to take over as head coach.