Ashleigh Plumptre nets first-ever goal for Nigeria as Super Falcons seal 2026 WAFCON qualification

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have booked their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a 1–1 draw against Benin Republic in the second leg of their qualifying double-header at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta.

The ten-time African champions had secured a comfortable 2–0 win in the first leg away in Togo, and came into Tuesday’s return fixture looking to finish the job in front of their home fans.

The Falcons started brightly, dominating possession and pinning the Benin side back into their half. Their early pressure paid off in the 12th minute when they won a corner kick. Esther Okoronkwo delivered a teasing cross, and Ashleigh Plumptre rose highest to head home — scoring her first-ever goal for Nigeria since making her competitive debut in February 2022.

Nigeria continued to press for a second goal, but the Beninese defence held firm, with goalkeeper Sourakatou Allasane producing several key saves to keep her team in the contest.

Benin Republic grew into the game after the break and found an equalizer in the 62nd minute through Yasminath Djibrin’s stunning free-kick, which left goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie with no chance.

Both sides created chances late on, but neither could find a winner as the game ended 1–1.

With a 3–1 aggregate victory, the Super Falcons advance to the 2026 WAFCON, maintaining their perfect record of qualifying for every edition of the continental tournament. The Nigerian side also remains the most successful team in WAFCON history, with ten titles to their name.