By: Boluwatife Kehinde
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have booked their place at the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after defeating the Amazons of Benin 3–1 on aggregate on Tuesday.
The ten-time African champions secured a 2–0 victory in the first leg of the qualifier in Lome, Togo, before being held to a 1–1 draw in the return leg played in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
READ ALSO: Gov Abiodun gifts Super Falcons ₦50m ahead of Benin clash
Ashleigh Plumptre scored her first-ever international goal and Nigeria’s only goal of the match in the first half. The defender rose highest to head home a brilliant Esther Okoronkwo cross in the 12th minute.
Benin equalized in the 80th minute, shortly after captain Rasheedat Ajibade missed a golden opportunity to extend Nigeria’s lead.
Speaking after the match, Plumptre expressed her delight at opening her goal account for the national team.
“It’s a really special moment for me,” she said. “I’m overwhelmed and happy to have 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, saying the result was enough to accomplish their target.
“We knew what was at stake,” Madugu said. “The first-leg win gave us confidence, and we just needed to finish the job in front of our home fans.”
READ ALSO: Super Falcons eye strong finish against Benin in WAFCON qualifier
With qualification secured, attention now shifts to Morocco, where the Super Falcons will aim to defend their crown and compete for an 11th continental title at the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
