Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets announced their title intentions in style, crushing Benin Republic 4–1 in their WAFU B U-17 Championship opener on Wednesday evening at the Stade du Lycée Scientifique in Yamoussoukro.

The Nigerians came out flying, striking twice within the first six minutes. George Agha set the tone with a sharp fourth-minute finish before David Edeh doubled the advantage two minutes later. Agha was unstoppable, adding two more goals in the 14th and 31st minutes to complete a stunning first-half hat-trick.

Benin’s Jeremy Zannou managed to pull one back just before the break, but Manu Garba’s side remained firmly in control and comfortably saw out the second half.

With the emphatic win, the Golden Eaglets sit atop Group B with three points, edging Burkina Faso on goal difference. Nigeria next face the Baby Stallions on Saturday in a clash that will decide the group leader. Benin, meanwhile, bow out of the tournament after suffering their second defeat.