Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, have booked their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after overcoming the Benin Republic 3–1 on aggregate in their two-legged qualifier.
The Falcons went into Tuesday’s return fixture in Abeokuta with a two-goal advantage, following a solid 2–0 victory in the first leg played in Lomé last week. Goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo had given the nine-time African champions a comfortable cushion heading home.
Returning to a lively MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, the Nigerian side maintained control of the encounter, with defender Ashleigh Plumptre opening the scoring midway through the first half. Her powerful header from a set piece marked her first-ever international goal for the Super Falcons.
Benin managed to grab a consolation late in the game, but it was not enough to overturn the deficit as Nigeria comfortably advanced with a 1–1 draw on the day and 3–1 on aggregate.
Speaking after the match, head coach Justine Madugu commended his players for their focus and discipline throughout the qualifying campaign.
“We knew the job wasn’t done after the first leg,” Madugu said. “The girls showed maturity and commitment, and we’re now focused on preparing for the finals.”
With qualification secured, the Super Falcons will turn their attention to the 2026 WAFCON, scheduled to hold in Morocco, where they will aim to reclaim their continental crown and secure a spot at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
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The victory further cements Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football, as the Falcons continue their pursuit of a record-extending tenth WAFCON title.
