African champions, the Nigeria Super Falcons, secured qualification to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after playing out a 1–1 draw with Benin Republic in the second leg of their final qualifying round on Tuesday, www.aclsports.com reports.
The result at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta saw the reigning champions advance 3–1 on aggregate, following their 2–0 first-leg victory in Lomé, Togo.
Head coach Justine Madugu made one change to the side that defeated the Amazons of Benin in the first leg, with Asisat Oshoala returning to the starting lineup in place of Chinwendu Ihezuo.
Nigeria started strongly, dominating possession and forcing the visitors to sit deep. Their early pressure paid off in the 12th minute when defender Ashleigh Plumptre rose highest to head home a superb corner delivered by Esther Okoronkwo, handing the hosts a well-deserved lead and registering her first-ever goal for Nigeria.
The Super Falcons continued to push forward and created several chances to double their advantage, but the Beninese goalkeeper stood firm to keep the scoreline at 1–0 going into the break.
Benin Republic found a way back into the contest in the 61st minute when Yasminath Djibril fired home from a well-taken set piece, beating Chiamaka Nnadozie to bring the visitors level.
Benin Republic pressed on in search of another goal, but Nigeria hung on to protect their aggregate advantage and confirm their spot at next year’s WAFCON finals.
The Super Falcons will now turn their attention to preparations for the tournament, where they will aim to defend the continental title and hope to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Morocco will once again host the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with the 2026 edition scheduled to take place from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
