The Super Falcons of Nigeria kicked off their quest for a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2024) title with a commanding 3-0 win over Tunisia at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca on Sunday.
Goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide, and substitute Chiwendu Ihezuo handed Nigeria all three points in their Group C opener, underlining their credentials as tournament favourites.
Nigeria made their intentions clear early on, with Oshoala heading home a pinpoint delivery from Babajide just four minutes into the match.
The early goal set the tone as head coach Justine Madugu’s side dominated possession and dictated the pace.
Babajide—making her first major tournament appearance for Nigeria—was the standout performer of the first half.
The C.A. Tenerife winger turned scorer in the 45th minute, beating the Tunisian goalkeeper to double Nigeria’s lead.
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She marked the moment with Diogo Jota’s trademark celebration, paying tribute to the Liverpool forward, who tragically passed away days earlier alongside his brother André Silva.
Super Falcons winger Rinsola Babajide celebrating her first ever competitive goal for Nigeria against Tunisia at WAFCON 2024. Photo Credit: X
A third goal from Chiwendu Ihezuo in the 80th minute sealed the win. The substitute calmly slotted past the Tunisian goalkeeper after a well-weighted pass from Esther Okoronkwo, who had come on for Oshoala at halftime.
The Super Falcons had several chances to extend their lead throughout the second half.
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Defender Ashleigh Plumptre, returning to the team, saw a long-range strike tipped over the bar and also had a goal disallowed in the first half for a foul in the build-up.
Player Ratings (Selected)
- Rinsola Babajide – 8/10: A dream debut. One assist, one goal in 45 minutes, and a touching tribute to Diogo Jota. Influential throughout the first half.
- Asisat Oshoala – 7.5/10: Scored the opener, led the line well, and showed her experience before making way at the break.
- Esther Okoronkwo – 6.8/10: Made an immediate impact off the bench, creating Ihezuo’s goal with great composure and link-up play.
Nigeria will face Botswana in their next group match on Wednesday, as they aim to avenge their semi-final exit from the 2022 edition and reclaim the continental crown.
