Nigeria Players Abroad
Super Falcons edge Tanzania in Casablanca as WAFCON title defence nears
Nigeria’s Super Falcons completed their build-up for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-1 win over Tanzania in a late friendly in Casablanca, sealed by a last-minute strike from Esther Okoronkwo.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade had earlier given the 10-time African champions an early lead, finishing calmly in the 14th minute after being picked out by Rinsola Babajide.
Nigeria dominated long spells of the first half under head coach Justine Madugu, carving out several clear opportunities but failing to add to Ajibade’s opener before the break.
Second-half changes for Nigeria
Madugu made sweeping changes at half-time, introducing Folashade Ijamilusi, Uchenna Kanu, Michelle Alozie and Joy Omewa at the restart.
Glory Ogbonna, Toni Payne, Rinsola Babajide and Asisat Oshoala were all withdrawn as the coaching staff used the game to assess options across the squad ahead of the finals.
Despite the reshuffle, Nigeria remained largely in control of possession and territory, keeping Tanzania pinned back for long periods.
Tanzania hit back before late Nigeria winner
Against the run of play, Tanzania found an equaliser in the 79th minute, punishing Nigeria’s inability to convert their dominance into a more comfortable scoreline.
The leveller briefly threatened to deny the Super Falcons a confidence-boosting win in their final warm-up fixture, but Okoronkwo struck in the 89th minute to restore the advantage, driving home what proved to be the decisive goal.
Her late finish ensured the reigning African champions concluded their preparations with victory, reflecting the balance of play over the 90 minutes.
Focus turns to WAFCON 2026 defence
The match in Casablanca was Nigeria’s final outing before the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where they will attempt to defend their continental crown.
The Super Falcons are scheduled to travel to Rabat on Friday to set up their tournament base, with their opening fixture to follow shortly afterwards.
Nigeria will begin their title defence against Malawi’s Scorchers at the Al Madina Stadium next Tuesday, as Madugu’s side aim to extend the Super Falcons’ record as the dominant force in African women’s football.
