The Super Falcons of Nigeria sealed qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after battling to a 1–1 draw with the Amazons of Benin at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Tuesday evening.

The result wrapped up a 3–1 aggregate victory for the reigning African champions, who took full advantage of their dominant first-leg display to book their ticket to Morocco 2026, Footballrover reports.

Super Falcons Assert Control in WAFCON Qualifier

Ashleigh Plumptre gave the Super Falcons an early lead with a commanding header in the 12th minute — her first-ever goal for Nigeria after 25 international appearances.

The defender rose high to meet Esther Okoronkwo’s precise corner, sparking loud cheers from the home fans in Abeokuta.

Nigeria had entered the decisive WAFCON qualifier full of confidence following their 2–0 win at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, where Chinwendu Ihezuo and Okoronkwo were on target.

With a 2–0 cushion from the first leg, the Falcons needed just a draw to progress — and they achieved exactly that.

The hosts dominated possession and tempo for much of the first half, moving the ball sharply through midfield and creating several half-chances.

The Falcons kept the Beninese defence on edge, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie remained largely untroubled early on.

Benin Fight Back but Falcons Stay Composed

Benin Republic, however, refused to go down quietly.

The Amazons found a route back into the game in the 61st minute, capitalising on a brief lapse in concentration from the Nigerian backline to make it 1–1.

The goal injected tension into the contest, briefly silencing the crowd and setting up a nervy final half-hour.

But the Super Falcons showed maturity and control, keeping their structure intact while frustrating the visitors’ late surge.

When the final whistle sounded, Nigeria had done enough to secure yet another appearance at Africa’s premier women’s football showpiece.

Beyond securing WAFCON qualification, the Super Falcons have also gained valuable momentum ahead of their 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign in Brazil.

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Last Updated on October 28, 2025 6:40 pm by footballrover