Nigeria’s Super Falcons have sealed their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after playing a 1-1 draw with Benin Republic, completing a 3-1 aggregate victory.
Defender Ashleigh Plumptre opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a powerful header — her first-ever goal for the national team — to give Nigeria an early lead at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.
The Al-Ittihad centre-back met Esther Okoronkwo’s corner perfectly, capping a lively start for Justin Madugu’s side, who dominated possession throughout the first half.
Despite creating several chances, the Falcons failed to increase their lead before the break, with Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade both coming close.
Benin, who had lost the first leg 2-0 in Lomé, equalised midway through the second half when Yasminath Djibril scored a brilliant free-kick to make it 1-1.
The goal briefly silenced the home crowd, but Nigeria stayed composed to see out the game and secure qualification comfortably.
The result means Nigeria maintain their perfect record in WAFCON qualification — the team has reached every edition of the tournament since it began in 1991, winning ten titles and never missing the semi-finals.
Okoronkwo was later substituted after picking up an injury.
The Super Falcons now join hosts Morocco as the first teams confirmed for next year’s tournament.
Before the match, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun announced a ₦50 million support package for the team, praising their consistency and immense contribution to women’s football in Nigeria.