Nigeria’s Super Falcons have officially sealed their qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a tense 1–1 draw against Benin Republic at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta on Tuesday, completing a 3–1 aggregate victory that books their ticket to Morocco.
The match carried more nerves than expected, with the Beninoise side putting up a determined fight that tested the reigning African champions. But Nigeria’s class, discipline, and composure shone through when it mattered most.
Coach Justine Madugu made just one adjustment to his first-leg lineup, drafting Afolabi into midfield while Asisat Oshoala led the attack. The Falcons started brightly, pressing high and controlling possession, and their persistence paid off in the 12th minute when Ashleigh Plumptre powered home a header from Esther Okoronkwo’s pinpoint cross — her first goal since returning from injury.
Benin, however, clawed back into the game in the second half, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to level the score. But Nigeria never lost control. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade orchestrated the midfield with poise, Oshoala and Okoronkwo stretched the defense, and Chiamaka Nnadozie made decisive saves to keep the result intact.
The draw means Nigeria advances to defend their crown in Morocco, maintaining their historic record as the only nation to have qualified for every WAFCON edition since its inception.
