WAFCON 2025: Nigeria's Super Falcons dominate Tunisia 3-0 to begin title quest in Style
The Super Falcons of Nigeria began their 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Tunisia in Casablanca on Sunday night. After falling short in the semi-finals of the last edition, Nigeria made a bold opening statement as they chase a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Venue: Stade Larbi Zaouli, Casablanca, Morocco
Final Score: Nigeria 3-0 Tunisia
Scorers: Asisat Oshoala (3’), Rinsola Babajide (45’), Chinwendu Ihezuo (80’)
The Super Falcons of Nigeria began their 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Tunisia in Casablanca on Sunday night. After falling short in the semi-finals of the last edition, Nigeria made a bold opening statement as they chase a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Oshoala breaks the deadlock early
It took just three minutes for Nigeria to stamp their authority on the match. A beautifully floated free-kick from Rinsola Babajide found star striker Asisat Oshoala, who rose above her marker to head the ball home and give Nigeria an early lead. The goal settled nerves and gave the Falcons a strong foundation to build on.
The Babajide Show: Assist, Goal & Tribute
Justine Madugu’s side remained on the front foot and continued to stretch the Tunisian defence. Their pressure paid off again on the brink of halftime, as Rinsola Babajide — already credited with the assist for the opening goal — turned finisher in the 45th minute, slotting past the goalkeeper to double Nigeria’s advantage.
Her celebration was emotional and powerful — a tribute to Diogo Jota, the Liverpool and Portugal forward who tragically passed away alongside his brother, Andre Silva, just days earlier. Babajide honoured Jota by replicating his trademark celebration, drawing widespread praise for the heartfelt gesture.
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Despite dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities, the Super Falcons were momentarily wasteful in front of goal. Returnee Ashleigh Plumptre, back in national colours after a brief injury spell, came close to adding a third with a lofted strike from distance, but Tunisia’s keeper tipped it over the bar.
Eventually, the third goal came in the 80th minute through Chinwendu Ihezuo, who calmly curled a left-footed shot into the bottom corner after some neat buildup play — putting the result beyond doubt.
WAFCON 2025 Title Charge: Redemption on the Horizon?
Nigeria’s last WAFCON campaign ended in heartbreak — a semi-final loss to hosts Morocco in 2022. But the nine-time champions look fired up to reclaim their continental crown this year, with a balanced blend of experienced stars and returning talents like Plumptre.
The win puts Nigeria top of Group B and sets the tone for what promises to be a statement tournament from Africa’s most decorated women’s team.
Key Match Stats:
- Shots on Target: Nigeria 7 – 2 Tunisia
- Possession: Nigeria 64% – 36% Tunisia
- Player of the Match: Rinsola Babajide (1 assist, 1 goal)
- Next Fixture: Nigeria vs South Africa – July 10, 2025
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