Abeokuta, Nigeria — 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.
The nine-time African champions advanced with a 3-1 aggregate victory after winning the first leg of the final qualifying round 2-0 in Cotonou.
Head coach Justine Madugu made one change to the starting lineup that defeated the Amazons in the first leg, with star striker Asisat Oshoala replacing Chiwendu Ihezuo.
Nigeria took an early lead in the 12th minute when Ashleigh Plumptre, the Al-Ittihad defender, rose highest to head home Esther Okoronkwo’s precise corner kick.
Despite dominating the first half and creating several scoring opportunities, the Falcons were unable to extend their lead before halftime. The visitors capitalized in the 61st minute, as Yasminath Djibril struck to level the score for Benin Republic.
The result was enough to seal Nigeria’s passage to the 2026 WAFCON, where they will look to defend their continental crown and extend their record as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.