Nigeria’s Super Falcons kicked off their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating Tunisia 3-0 on Sunday at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco.
It took Justine Madugu’s side just three minutes to announce their intent. A pinpoint free-kick delivery from winger Rinsola Babajide found captain Asisat Oshoala, who rose highest to head home Nigeria’s opening goal.
The Super Falcons dominated possession and continued to press, and their efforts paid off on the stroke of halftime. Babajide, who had already provided the assist for the opener, doubled Nigeria’s lead with a well-taken goal, slotting past the Tunisian goalkeeper with composure. She celebrated with a Diogo Jota trademark gesture — a heartfelt tribute to the late Liverpool star and his brother Andre Silva, who tragically passed away last Thursday.
Nigeria remained on the front foot in the second half, creating a flurry of chances. Ashleigh Plumptre, making her return to the team, tested the Tunisian goalkeeper with a powerful long-range strike, but it was tipped over the bar.
The Super Falcons sealed the win in the 80th minute when Chinwendu Ihezuo calmly slotted a left-footed finish into the bottom corner to make it 3-0.
With this victory, the Super Falcons — record nine-time African champions — are setting their sights on reclaiming the WAFCON title after falling short in the 2022 semi-finals, also held in Morocco’s.
