The Super Falcons of Nigeria have secured qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco after a 1–1 draw against the Benin Republic at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Tuesday, sealing a 3–1 aggregate victory.
The result ensures the 10-time African champions will return to defend their crown next year as they target an 11th continental title and a ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Plumptre Opens Her Super Falcons Account
Having won the first leg 2–0 in Lome, Nigeria entered the match with confidence, but the Beninese Amazons showed great determination through the energetic pair of Dossi Germaine Honfo and Yenido Romaine Gandonou.
The Falcons, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, maintained composure and threatened early when Asisat Oshoala was played through in the 8th minute. Their pressure soon paid off in the 13th minute when Ashleigh Plumptre powered home a header from Esther Okoronkwo’s corner, her first-ever goal for Nigeria.
Oshoala and Michelle Alozie came close to extending the lead, while Okoronkwo’s free kick in the 41st minute struck the side netting as Nigeria dominated the first half.
Benin Republic Fights Back
After the break, the Amazons came out stronger, forcing Chiamaka Nnadozie into a string of fine saves. The Paris FC goalkeeper denied Gandonou in the 56th minute and pulled off another impressive stop two minutes later from Yolande Gnammi’s long-range strike.
Benin’s persistence was rewarded in the 60th minute when Yasminath Djibril curled a brilliant free kick beyond Nnadozie to make it 1–1, giving the visitors a glimmer of hope.
Nigeria Holds Firm to Seal Qualification
Despite Benin’s late surge, the Super Falcons created several chances to restore their lead. Substitute Folashade Ijamilusi missed narrowly in the 72nd minute after a fumble from goalkeeper Sourakatou Alassane, who later denied Ajibade and Ijamilusi again in the closing stages.
Nigeria held on for a 1–1 draw, completing a 3–1 aggregate triumph and booking their place at the 2026 WAFCON.
A Historic Record Continues
The qualification extends the Super Falcons’ proud record of appearing in every edition of the WAFCON since its inception in 1991.
Playing in Abeokuta for the first time since their 2024 WAFCON preparation against Algeria, the team was cheered on by an enthusiastic home crowd that celebrated yet another step toward continental glory.
With qualification secured, the Super Falcons will now turn their focus to Morocco 2026 and the chance to make history once again.
