Nigeria kicked off their campaign for a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in emphatic fashion, defeating Tunisia 3–0 on Sunday evening at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
Goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide, and Chinwendu Ihezuo highlighted the gulf in quality in this Group B opener, extending the Super Falcons’ dominance over North African opponents at the tournament.
Heading into the game, Nigeria had struggled in their last two WAFCON openers—losing to South Africa in both 2018 and 2022—but wasted no time shaking off past jitters.
Just four minutes in, Babajide won a free-kick on the left and delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Oshoala rose to nod home her 14th career WAFCON goal.
The second goal came deep into first-half stoppage time. After a lengthy VAR check for offside, Babajide’s composed left-footed finish in the 46th minute was upheld, giving Nigeria a comfortable 2–0 lead at the break.
Coach Justine Madugu made three changes at halftime, withdrawing Oshoala, Babajide, and Abiodun for Chinwendu Ihezuo, Esther Okoronkwo, and Christy Ucheibe—moves that paid off instantly. Ihezuo brought fresh energy to the attack, while Okoronkwo’s sharp runs and link-up play kept Tunisia pinned back. Okoronkwo nearly scored in the 81st minute, striking the post, before turning provider three minutes later.
In the 84th minute, she met a cross from Ashleigh Plumptre with a clever flicked header that found Ihezuo perfectly positioned. The forward calmly slotted the ball into the far corner with her left foot to wrap up the scoring.
With the win, Nigeria sits atop Group B and will next face Botswana, while Tunisia hope to revive their campaign against Algeria.
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