Nigeria’s Super Falcons completed their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on a winning note after securing a hard fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania in an international friendly played in Casablanca on Thursday night.
The nine time African champions started brightly and deservedly took the lead in the 14th minute. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade calmly slotted home after an excellent assist from Rinsola Babajide, giving Nigeria an early advantage and setting the tone for an impressive first half.
Justine Madugu’s side controlled possession for long periods and created several clear scoring opportunities. However, despite their dominance and attacking intent, they failed to convert more chances before the halftime whistle, allowing Tanzania to remain within touching distance.
At the start of the second half, Madugu refreshed his team with four substitutions. Folashade Ijamilusi, Uchenna Kanu, Michelle Alozie, and Joy Omewa came on for Glory Ogbonna, Toni Payne, Rinsola Babajide, and Asisat Oshoala as Nigeria looked to maintain their intensity and add to their lead.
Although the Super Falcons continued to dictate the tempo and enjoyed the better chances, Tanzania stunned the Nigerian side with an equaliser in the 79th minute against the run of play. The goal briefly shifted the momentum and set up a tense finish.
Nigeria, however, responded with determination and refused to settle for a draw. Esther Okoronkwo emerged as the hero in the closing moments, firing home the winning goal just a minute from full time to seal a deserved 2-1 victory for the defending African champions.
The result provides a timely confidence boost as the Super Falcons prepare to begin their quest for another continental crown. The friendly also gave the coaching staff an opportunity to assess the squad, test tactical combinations, and fine tune preparations before the tournament begins.
Following the victory, the Super Falcons will travel to Rabat on Friday, where they will continue preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria will open the defence of their continental title against Malawi’s Scorchers at the Al Madina Stadium next Tuesday, as they begin another campaign in pursuit of African glory.
