The Super Falcons of Nigeria have kicked off their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 campaign with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Tunisia on July 6, 2025, signaling their strong intent to dominate the tournament. Goals from prolific forward Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide, and substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo secured the comprehensive win, positioning the nine-time African champions at the top of their group.

Head coach Justin Madugu, who took the reins after Nigeria’s FIFA Women’s World Cup outing, expressed immense satisfaction with the team’s collective performance. He emphasized the importance of a winning start, stating, “It always feels good each time you set out to go out for a game. The ultimate goal for you is to win.” Madugu’s strategic decisions, including bold substitutions like bringing in Esther Okoronkwo, Christy Ucheibe, and Ihezuo for star players Oshoala and Babajide, proved effective as Okoronkwo and Ihezuo combined for Nigeria’s third goal. He underlined the significance of team harmony and transparency, ensuring every player feels relevant and has an equal chance to contribute.

Super Falcons goalkeeper Cynthia Chiamaka Nnadozie shared her delight following the clean sheet, acknowledging Tunisia as a respectful opponent who put up a good fight. Despite not being heavily tested, Nnadozie maintained concentration and expressed pride in her teammates’ performance. Looking ahead, the Brighton and Hove Albion goalkeeper adopted a pragmatic approach towards the team’s aspiration for a tenth WAFCON title, stating, “There’s no need to rush or think ahead. We’ll focus on our next game. We had a very good game today, so if we continue like this, hopefully, mission X will be valid.”

Al-Ittihad Ladies full-back Ashleigh Plumptre also reflected on the victory, admitting that despite the 3-0 scoreline, there remains significant work to be done both offensively and defensively. Plumptre, who had a goal wrongly disallowed, urged her teammates to use the win as motivation for future matches. She expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support received from Nigerian fans since her debut in February 2022, promising the team’s best efforts to bring continued success.

Central to the Super Falcons’ aspirations is the leadership of captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who alongside Asisat Oshoala, unveiled the new WAFCON trophy prior to the tournament. At 24, Ajibade represents a generational shift, blending experience with the evolving demands of modern football. Her leadership style is characterized by consistent work ethic and professionalism, rather than flamboyant speeches. Her strong religious faith also provides a stabilizing influence within the squad, which has faced its share of challenges. In an increasingly competitive African women’s football landscape, with rising challengers like reigning champions Banyana Banyana, Morocco, and Zambia, Ajibade’s reliable and consistent leadership is considered crucial for fostering discipline, cohesion, and focus.

Midfielder Christy Ucheibe echoed the team’s high spirits and confidence, asserting that Nigeria is the “best in Africa” and is ready to secure their tenth WAFCON title. She assured Nigerians of the team’s 100% readiness and their commitment to doing their best to emerge victorious, even against formidable opponents like South Africa.

With one win already under their belt, the Super Falcons need just one more victory to secure their spot in the quarterfinals. Their next challenge is against Botswana, who suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Algeria in their opening match. The upcoming game against Botswana, scheduled for Thursday, July 10, at Stade Larbi Zaouli, will be a crucial step for Nigeria to solidify their position in the knockout rounds, as they aim to reassert their continental dominance and bring home the coveted WAFCON trophy.