Nigeria’s Super Falcons wrapped up their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania’s Twiga Stars in Casablanca on Thursday evening.
The nine-time African champions appeared to be heading for a frustrating draw after Tanzania cancelled out Rasheedat Ajibade’s first-half opener. However, Esther Okoronkwo came off the bench to score the decisive goal in the 89th minute and ensure the Super Falcons entered the tournament on a winning note.
The friendly encounter was Nigeria’s final test before the start of WAFCON in Morocco, where Justin Madugu’s side will be aiming to reclaim continental supremacy.
Ajibade gives Nigeria early control
Nigeria started brightly and took the lead in the 15th minute through captain Rasheedat Ajibade.
The former Atletico Madrid forward finished clinically after being set up by Rinsola Babajide, giving the Super Falcons a deserved advantage after an encouraging opening spell. The goal rewarded Nigeria’s dominance and allowed Madugu’s side to control much of the first half.
With the tournament just days away, the coaching crew appeared focused on balancing results with squad assessment, giving several players opportunities to impress.
Madugu tests squad depth
The second half saw a number of changes as Nigeria’s technical team rotated the squad.
Folashade Ijamilusi, Uche Kanu, Michelle Alozie, Joy Omewa, Esther Okoronkwo, Osinachi Ohale and Halimatu Ayinde were all introduced as Madugu evaluated different combinations ahead of the competition. Key figures including Asisat Oshoala and Toni Payne were rested as part of the preparations.
The substitutions disrupted Nigeria’s rhythm slightly and Tanzania capitalised in the 79th minute, finding an equaliser that threatened to deny the Super Falcons victory.
Okoronkwo delivers again
Just when the game looked destined to finish level, Okoronkwo produced the decisive moment.
The forward, who has built a reputation for delivering in crucial moments for Nigeria, latched onto a pass from Ajibade before finding the back of the net in the 89th minute. Her strike restored Nigeria’s lead and ultimately secured the victory.
Okoronkwo’s contribution will further boost confidence within the squad, especially after her influential performances for the national team in recent major tournaments.
Attention turns to WAFCON
The victory provides positive momentum for the Super Falcons as they prepare for their opening match of the tournament.
Nigeria have been drawn in Group C and will begin their campaign against Malawi before facing Zambia and Egypt in what is expected to be a competitive group. The Super Falcons remain the most successful team in the history of the competition and will be among the favourites to challenge for the title once again.
While there is still room for improvement, Thursday’s result offered encouraging signs. The team showed resilience after conceding late and demonstrated the squad depth that could prove vital during a demanding tournament.
The focus now shifts fully to WAFCON, where Nigeria will be aiming to add another continental crown to their impressive collection.
