The Super Falcons of Nigeria have successfully secured their qualification for the forthcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) tournament, following a 1-1 draw against the CC Republic of Benin on Tuesday evening.
The win sealed a comfortable 3-1 victory on aggregate.
The reigning African champions began the second leg clash at the MKO Abiola Stadium aggressively, immediately seizing control of the match and pressuring the visitors’ defense.
Their early dominance was rewarded in the 12th minute when defender Ashleigh Plumptre scored her first goal for Nigeria, heading in a precise corner kick delivered by Esther Okoronkwo.
This first-half strike provided the Falcons with a deserved lead heading into the break.
After being pinned back for the entire first half, the Republic of Benin returned to the pitch with renewed vigor after the restart, pushing forward to find an equalizer.
Their persistence paid off ten minutes before the final whistle when they managed to beat Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and level the score at 1-1.
Despite the late-game pressure from Benin, the Super Falcons successfully managed the game to hold on for the draw in front of their home supporters.
Building on their 2-0 victory in the first leg—thanks to goals from Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo—Nigeria’s aggregate win ensures they will proceed to the next WAFCON tournament, where they will aim to defend the title they won in Morocco.
Speaking on scoring her first international goal, Plumptre expressed delight and described it was special moment for her.
She added that she was overwhelmed and happy to have hi contributed. “The fans have been amazing, and this team deserves to be at WAFCON.”
Head coach Justin Madugu praised his team’s resilience and composure.
He noted that the result was enough to accomplish their target.
“We knew what was at stake. The first-leg win gave us confidence, and we just needed to finish the job in front of our home fans,” Madugu said.
