Ajibade, Okoronkwo fire Super Falcons past Tanzania in pre-WAFCON friendly
The Nigeria's senior women's national team wrapped up another phase of their preparations for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania's Twiga Stars in a closed-door international friendly in Casablanca on Thursday.
Nigeria made a bright start and took the lead in the 14th minute when captain Rasheedat Ajibade calmly finished off a well-worked move after being set up by Rinsola Babajide.
The ten-time African champions, however, suffered an early setback as defender Rofiat Imuran was forced off with an injury, paving the way for Glory Ogbonna to replace her.
Despite Nigeria's dominance, Tanzania stood firm defensively and prevented the Super Falcons from adding to their advantage. The East Africans eventually found an equaliser in the second half to set up an entertaining finish.
With the contest finely poised, substitute Esther Okoronkwo proved to be the difference-maker. The forward struck late in the game to restore Nigeria's lead, this time latching onto an assist from Ajibade, who capped an influential display with a goal and an assist.
The victory offers another confidence boost for head coach Justine Madugu and his squad as they fine-tune preparations for the tournament.
The Super Falcons will open their Group C campaign against Malawi on Tuesday, July 28, as they begin their bid to reclaim the continental crown and secure a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
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