The Super Falcons of Nigeria, have booked their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a 1–1 draw with Benin Republic in the second leg of their final qualifying fixture on Tuesday.

The result at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta ensured Nigeria’s progression with a 3–1 aggregate victory, following their 2–0 win in the first leg played in Lomé, Togo.

Head coach Justine Madugu made one change from the side that triumphed in the first leg, handing a start to captain Asisat Oshoala in place of Chinwendu Ihezuo.

The Falcons began the match on the front foot, dominating possession and pinning the visitors deep into their own half. Their persistence paid off in the 12th minute when defender Ashleigh Plumptre rose highest to nod home a well-placed corner from Esther Okoronkwo, her first-ever goal in Nigerian colours.

Nigeria continued to control proceedings and carved out several chances to extend their lead, but the Beninese goalkeeper stood tall to keep the scoreline at 1–0 heading into halftime.

Benin Republic, however, clawed their way back into the game in the 61st minute as Yasminath Djibril fired in a brilliant free-kick past Chiamaka Nnadozie to level the score.

Despite late pressure from the Amazons, Nigeria held firm to protect their aggregate advantage and confirm their place at next year’s continental showpiece.

The Super Falcons will now shift focus to preparations for the 2026 WAFCON, where they’ll aim to defend their title and push for qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The upcoming WAFCON will be hosted once again by Morocco, running from March 17 to April 3, 2026.