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Super Falcons face Benin in crucial WAFCON qualifier Tuesday

The Super Falcons of Nigeria will on Tuesday host the Amazons of Benin Republic in the return leg of the final round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Nigeria, 10-time African champions, head into the game with a comfortable 2–0 advantage from the first leg in Cotonou last Friday, thanks to goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo.

The Falcons dominated the game, controlling play across all areas. Fine performance of goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and the crossbar also limited Benin to few scoring opportunities.

Falcons had camped for almost a week in Lome, Togo, where they played the first leg.

They arrived in Nigeria on Saturday and trained in Abeokuta on Sunday for the return leg.

Despite the first-leg advantage, head coach Justin Madugu insists the job is far from done, warning against complacency.

“We expect a tough match from the Beninoise, but we are ready to give a strong performance to secure qualification for the 2026 WAFCON and continue our push toward the 2027 World Cup in Brazil,” he said.

Madugu praised the Benin side, which features several players based in Germany, France, Morocco, and Equatorial Guinea, for their spirited showing in the first leg, noting that no team can be underestimated in African women’s football.

Players

The Nigerian lineup is expected to remain unchanged from the first leg.

Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is likely to retain her spot between the posts, with Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin and Ashley Plumptre forming the defensive line.

In midfield, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Deborah Abiodun and Taiwo Afolabi are set to orchestrate play, while Ihezuo, Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi are tipped to lead the attack.

However, Madugu could also turn to experienced forward and six-time African Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, alongside Joy Omewa and Kafayat Mafisere, as alternative attacking options.

Match Details

Competition: 2026 WAFCON Final Qualifier (Round 2)

Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2025

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