Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured qualification for next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a 1-1 draw with Benin Republic in the final round return leg on Tuesday in Abeokuta, sealing a 3-1 aggregate victory.
The defending champions showed their class at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, staying composed against a determined Beninese side led by the lively Dossi Germaine Honfo and Yenido Romaine Gandonou.
Nigeria took the lead in the 13th minute when defender Ashley Plumptre powered home a header from an Esther Okoronkwo corner. Moments later, Asisat Oshoala came close again with another header that drifted narrowly wide, while Michelle Alozie also missed a chance before halftime.
Benin Republic fought back after the restart, testing goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie with a series of shots. The pressure paid off in the 60th minute when Yasminath Djibril fired in a superb free-kick to level the score.
The Falcons continued to press for a winner as Folashade Ijamilusi and captain Rasheedat Ajibade both came close, but Benin goalkeeper Sourakatou Alassane stood firm to keep the scoreline level.
The result sends Nigeria to Morocco 2026, where they will aim to defend their title and pursue an 11th continental crown. Qualification also brings them a step closer to a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
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