Nigeria’s Super Falcons Qualify for WAFCON 2026 in Morocco

The Super Falcons of Nigeria have qualified for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a 1–1 draw with the Benin Republic in the second leg of their final qualifying tie at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.

The result sealed a 3–1 aggregate victory for the nine-time African champions, ensuring their place in next year’s tournament in Morocco, where they will aim to defend their continental crown.

We are back to defend our title!#SoarSuperFalcons pic.twitter.com/pb6hMNabk7

— NGSuper_Falcons (@NGSuper_Falcons) October 28, 2025

Plumptre Puts Falcons Ahead

Head coach Justine Madugu made one change to the team that won the first leg in Cotonou, with star striker Asisat Oshoala returning to the starting lineup in place of Chiwendu Ihezuo.

Nigeria began the encounter with confidence and intensity, pressing the visitors deep into their half. Their early pressure paid off in the 12th minute when defender Ashleigh Plumptre rose highest to head home Esther Okoronkwo’s pinpoint corner, sending the home fans into celebration.

Full time in Abeokuta pic.twitter.com/lB5J9w3CMy

— NGSuper_Falcons (@NGSuper_Falcons) October 28, 2025

Despite dominating possession and creating several opportunities, the Falcons could not find a second goal before the interval.

Benin Fight Back

The Benin Republic, who were chasing the tie after losing 2–0 at home, showed greater composure in the second half. Their efforts were rewarded in the 61st minute when Yasminath Djibril slotted past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to level the scoreline.

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That goal briefly raised tension in the Nigerian camp, but the Falcons regained control and held on to secure the aggregate win that confirmed their passage to the finals.

Eyes on Morocco 2026

With the qualification sealed, Nigeria will now turn their attention to the 2026 WAFCON, which will be hosted in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.

For Coach Madugu, the result marks an encouraging step in the team’s rebuild ahead of another major continental campaign.

“It was a tough game, but our players showed resilience and character. The goal now is to prepare well for Morocco and defend our title,” the coach said after the match.

The Super Falcons, who remain Africa’s most successful women’s football team, will be among the favourites when the tournament kicks off next year.