Nigerian players rating vs Benin: Lookman steals show, Osimhen shines, Troost-Ekong rock solid

By Wale Mustapha

The Super Eagles of Nigeria launched their 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers with a resounding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic on Saturday.

The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, saw Ademola Lookman netting twice and Victor Osimhen adding a third goal, delivering a satisfying revenge against their West African rivals.

Here’s a NigeriaFootball.ng detailed look at how each player performed:

Starting XI

• Stanley Nwabali – 7.5/10
  Nwabali had a solid performance, effectively managing his goal area and making crucial saves when required.
• Ola Aina – 7/10
  Aina was reliable defensively, making timely tackles, but his offensive contributions were somewhat limited.
• Semi Ajayi – 7.5/10
  Ajayi provided a strong defensive presence, partnering well with Troost-Ekong and offering solid coverage, especially when Aina advanced.
• William Troost-Ekong – 8/10
  Troost-Ekong was a defensive rock, demonstrating leadership and precision in tackles and aerial duels, while also contributing to attacking buildup.
• Calvin Bassey – 7/10
  Bassey was aggressive and effective in stifling Benin’s attacks on the left flank, though his combative style earned him a yellow card and led to his substitution.
• Bruno Onyeamachi – 7.5/10
  Onyeamachi was robust in defense and contributed offensively, helping Lookman thrive with his well-timed overlaps and solid defensive work.
• Wilfred Ndidi – 8/10
  Ndidi was a midfield enforcer, maintaining control and dictating the pace of the game. His injury forced him off early, but he was pivotal while on the field.
• Alex Iwobi – 7/10
  Iwobi took on a deeper role, which reduced his attacking influence, but he was close to an assist before his substitution.
• Samuel Chukwueze – 7/10
  Chukwueze was less impactful offensively than expected but provided valuable defensive support and work rate.
• Victor Boniface – 7/10
  Boniface had a quiet game, struggling to make an impact due to limited service.
• Ademola Lookman – 9.5/10
  Lookman was the standout performer, using his pace and creativity to score twice. His dynamic display earned him the Player of the Match accolade.

Substitutes

• Moses Simon – 7/10
  Simon injected energy into the attack and played a key role in assisting the third goal, making a strong case for a starting position in the next match.
• Olisa Ndah – 6.5/10
  Ndah added stability to the defense, though he initially appeared nervous, he settled in and finished the game strongly.
• Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 6/10
  Dele-Bashiru brought fresh legs and dynamism to the midfield, contributing to the buildup of the second goal.
• Victor Osimhen – 7.5/10
  Osimhen added a crucial goal and provided sharpness to the attack, though he missed a second chance that could have added to his tally.
• Raphael Onyedika – 5/10
  Onyedika’s late appearance had little impact on the match, as he had limited time to make a difference.

The Super Eagles’ dominant performance sets an optimistic tone for their AFCON qualifiers campaign, with Lookman and Osimhen standing out as key contributors in this decisive win.

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