Super Falcons begin WAFCON 2024 with emphatic win over Tunisia

Summary

• Nigeria defeat Tunisia 3–0 in their WAFCON 2024 opener, with goals from Oshoala, Babajide, and Ihezuo
• Victory marks Nigeria’s first opening-match win since 2016, boosting hopes of a record-extending 10th title
• Super Falcons dominate possession and keep clean sheet in statement performance under coach Madugu

Casablanca, Morocco – Nigeria’s Super Falcons launched their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a commanding 3–0 victory over Tunisia on 6 July at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco. The result signalled a confident start to their “Mission X” quest for a record-extending 10th continental crown and reaffirmed their status as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.

Under head coach Justin Madugu, Nigeria produced a balanced performance of attacking flair and defensive organisation, securing their first opening-day win at the WAFCON since 2016. Asisat Oshoala opened the scoring in the 4th minute, converting a free-kick delivered by Rinsola Babajide in a chaotic scramble. Initially, Ashleigh Plumptre was credited with the goal, but it was later awarded to Oshoala, her 31st for the national team.

Babajide then doubled Nigeria’s lead just before the break, scoring her maiden goal in a senior international tournament. The Tenerife winger, who switched allegiance from England to Nigeria in 2023, slotted home a low effort in added time of the first half and paid tribute to the late Liverpool player Diogo Jota in her celebration. Chinwendu Ihezuo, introduced as a substitute, sealed the win in the 84th minute, finishing clinically after a well-timed cross from Plumptre.

Tunisia offered little threat throughout the contest. Nigeria controlled possession, applied relentless pressure, and exploited wide areas effectively. The North Africans, who reached the quarter-finals in 2022, failed to register a single shot on target. Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, twice named CAF Goalkeeper of the Year, enjoyed a relatively quiet evening behind a solid back line.

Key moments included a yellow card for Deborah Abiodun in the 23rd minute after a clumsy challenge that could have seen her sent off. Later, a potential Tunisian penalty was overturned following a VAR review, which ruled a foul in the build-up.

Individually, several players impressed. Oshoala, despite questions over her form after a goalless run for Bay FC in the United States, silenced critics with her early goal. Babajide’s contribution earned her praise as a rising star, while Nnadozie’s composure further underlined her importance to the side. Plumptre and Ihezuo also stood out, highlighting the team’s depth and experience.

The victory placed Nigeria top of Group B on goal difference, ahead of Algeria, who beat Botswana 1–0 in their opener. A win against Botswana in their next match on 10 July could secure early qualification to the quarter-finals.

The Super Falcons’ campaign is being closely followed, not only for sporting reasons but for what a 10th WAFCON title would represent for Nigerian pride and unity. The team has won 9 of the 12 editions since 1998 but has not lifted the trophy since 2018, finishing fourth in 2022 after a dramatic semi-final loss to hosts Morocco.

The 2024 squad, captained by Rasheedat Ajibade, features a mix of veterans, including Oshoala, Ohale, and Ordega, and emerging talents such as Miracle Usani and Shukurat Oladipo. Their preparations included friendly matches against Ghana and Portugal, and the return of fitness coach Per Karlsson has visibly enhanced their physical performance.

This year’s WAFCON, held across six venues in five Moroccan cities from 5 to 23 July, is widely regarded as the most competitive edition yet. Defending champions South Africa, ambitious hosts Morocco, and fast-improving sides like Equatorial Guinea and Zambia all pose significant challenges. Coach Madugu’s tactical approach and experience will be vital as Nigeria navigates the road ahead.

The broader impact of Nigeria’s campaign extends beyond the pitch. With a new trophy unveiled and increased prize money on offer, the tournament is seen as a symbol of progress for women’s football across Africa. For the Super Falcons, reclaiming the title would not only restore continental dominance but further cement their legacy as pioneers of the women’s game on the continent.