Super Falcons Seal WAFCON 2026 Spot After Draw With Benin
2 min read
By Sportsgister
The Super Falcons of Nigeria have booked their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a 1-1 draw with the Benin Republic at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.
The result saw the defending champions progress 3-1 on aggregate after their 2-0 victory in the first leg.
Head coach Justine Madugu made a single change to his starting lineup, handing Asisat Oshoala a start in place of Chiwendu Ihezuo.
Nigeria began the game on the front foot, dominating possession and forcing the visitors deep into their half. The early pressure paid off in the 12th minute when Ashleigh Plumptre rose highest to head home from an Esther Okoronkwo corner, giving the Falcons a deserved lead.
Despite creating several more chances before halftime, the hosts failed to extend their advantage. The Beninese side grew into the game after the break and were rewarded in the 61st minute, as Yasminath Djibril capitalized on a defensive lapse to level the score.
The Super Falcons held firm in the closing stages to secure qualification and continue their proud record as one of Africa’s most consistent teams in women’s football.
Nigeria now joins Zambia, Tanzania, Malawi, Algeria, Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Kenya as confirmed participants for the 2026 WAFCON, which will be hosted by Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
The tournament will also serve as the African qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, adding extra motivation for the continent’s elite sides.
