Nigeria’s Super Falcons have booked their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON )after a 1-1 draw with Benin Republic secured a 3-1 aggregate win.
Defender Ashleigh Plumptre opened the scoring with a powerful header in the 12th minute her first-ever goal for the national team to put the hosts firmly in control at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.
The Al-Ittihad centre-back met Esther Okoronkwo’s corner with precision, capping a lively start for Justin Madugu’s side, who dominated possession throughout the opening half.
Despite creating several chances, the Falcons were unable to extend their lead before the break, with Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade both going close.
Super Falcons Captain Rasheedat Ajibade.Photo Credit: Pooja
Benin, who lost the first leg 2-0 in Lomé, struck back midway through the second half when Yasminath Djibril curled in a superb free-kick to level the match at 1-1.
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The equaliser silenced the home crowd briefly, but Nigeria’s composure ensured there were no late scares as the ten-time African champions comfortably saw out the game.
The result maintains Nigeria’s flawless qualification record they have reached every edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations since its inception in 1991, winning ten titles and never failing to reach the semi-finals.
Esther Okoronkwo was later withdrawn injured. Photo Credit: Pooja
The Super Falcons now join hosts Morocco as the first teams confirmed for next year’s tournament.
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Ahead of the fixture, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun announced a ₦50 million support package for the squad, praising their consistency and contribution to women’s football development in Nigeria.
