Monday October 27, 2025
By TheNewsDESK |
The Super Falcons of Nigeria will on Tuesday, October 28, 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
Time: 4:00 p.m. (Nigerian time)
Venue: MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta
Live: CAF TV
Ahead of the 14th edition of the WAFCON in Morocco, the qualification race is intensifying as countries vie for their tickets.
The aggregate winner will seal qualification for the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to hold in Morocco from 17 March to 3 April 2026.
