Super Falcons seal 16th straight Women’s AFCON qualification after draw with Benin

Nigeria have secured qualification for the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2026, extending their unrivalled record of consistency in African women’s football.

The reigning champions booked their place with a 1–1 draw against Benin in Abeokuta, completing a 3–1 aggregate victory after a commanding 2–0 first-leg win in Cotonou.

It marks the Super Falcons’ 16th consecutive qualification for the tournament, a record unmatched across the continent.

The result reinforces Nigeria’s dominance in women’s football and highlights their sustained excellence over nearly three decades of continental competition.

In front of an energetic home crowd at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Justine Madugu’s side approached the second leg with composure and intent.

Already leading from the first leg, Nigeria controlled possession from the outset, dictating the tempo and applying steady pressure on the Beninese defence.

Their patience was rewarded in the 12th minute when Ashleigh Plumptre, the versatile Al-Ittihad defender, stepped forward from the back and unleashed a precise left-footed strike from the edge of the area to give Nigeria the lead.

Benin, however, responded with resilience. In the 61st minute, Yasmine Djibril pounced on a defensive lapse to fire in the equaliser, offering a brief glimmer of hope for the visitors.

But Nigeria, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade and anchored by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, calmly managed the remainder of the match, maintaining control and ensuring safe passage to Morocco.

Under Madugu’s stewardship, the Super Falcons continue to blend youth and experience, preserving the hunger that has long defined their success.

With ten continental titles to their name, Nigeria remain the standard-bearers of African women’s football and one of the most decorated national teams globally.

Madugu has emphasised tactical discipline and mental strength since taking charge, shaping a side capable of adapting to modern challenges while staying true to its attacking identity.

As the Falcons turn their focus to Morocco 2026, expectations will be high once again.

With a core of seasoned internationals and emerging talents, Nigeria will aim not only to defend their crown but to reaffirm their status as Africa’s enduring queens of women’s football.