Nigeria’s Super Falcons have sealed their place in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a 3–1 aggregate triumph over their West African neighbours, Benin Republic.
The Falcons played out a 1–1 draw with the Amazons of Benin in the second leg of their qualifier on Tuesday at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State. However, the result from the first leg in Lome, Togo—a convincing 0–2 win courtesy of goals from Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo—ensured Nigeria’s qualification.
Ashleigh Plumptre gave the Super Falcons an early lead with a superb header from an Okoronkwo corner. The goal marked Plumptre’s first for the Nigerian team since pledging her international future to the country in 2017 after previously representing England.
Benin Republic managed to equalize in the 61st minute through Yasmine Djibril, but it was not enough to alter the outcome. The Falcons held firm under Coach Justin Madugu’s guidance, maintaining composure and control to book their spot in next year’s continental showpiece.
The victory means Nigeria continues its dominant streak in African women’s football. The team previously lifted the WAFCON trophy after a dramatic win over hosts Morocco, clinching their record-extending 10th title. The Super Falcons have won the championship in 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018.
Next year’s tournament is set to take place in Morocco between March 17 and April 3, 2026. The Women’s AFCON will also serve as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The semi-finalists will automatically qualify for the global tournament, while two additional teams will have the chance to compete through intercontinental playoffs.
The Super Falcons, Africa’s most successful women’s team, have participated in every edition of the Women’s World Cup. In 2023, they reached the Round of 16 but were eliminated by eventual finalists England in a tense penalty shootout.
What you should know
The Super Falcons’ qualification for the 2026 WAFCON reaffirms Nigeria’s status as Africa’s powerhouse in women’s football.
Led by experienced players like Plumptre and Okoronkwo, the team remains a strong contender for continental and global success.
