Following a 1-1 tie with the Republic of Benin on Tuesday night at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Nigeria’s Super Falcons have formally secured their spot at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The outcome gave the defending African champions a 3-1 two-leg aggregate victory. Ashleigh Plumptre scored her maiden goal for Nigeria in the 12th minute after making a strong comeback to the team. To give the Super Falcons an early lead and set the tone for the match, the defender hammered home a header after rising highest from a well-taken corner by Esther OkoronkwoNigeria controlled possession and had Benin confined to their own half during the first half. They had a well-earned advantage going into halftime thanks to their efficient attacking play and strong defense. But in the second half, the visitors showed more vigor and resolve, emerging stronger. Ten minutes from the end, Benin’s perseverance paid off as they scored the equalizer, slipping past goalie Chiamaka Nnadozie to make it 1-1. In front of their home fans, the Falcons maintained their composure and played well to preserve their aggregate lead and guarantee qualificationNigeria won the first leg 2-0 in Cotonou thanks to goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo, and the draw came after that. The Super Falcons advanced to the 14th WAFCON, which will be held in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026, after winning 3-1 overall. Ten-time African champions Nigeria have impressively qualified for every Women’s Africa Cup of Nations since its inception, consistently making it to the semi-finals or beyond. They are now among the first teams confirmed for the tournament next year, along with hosts Morocco.
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