Super Falcons soar past Tunisia in 2025 WAFCON opener

The Super Falcons of Nigeria kicked off their 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Tunisia on Sunday, July 6, at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium. The nine-time champions showcased their dominance in the Group B opener, setting a strong tone for their quest for a record-extending 10th title.

The match began with an early breakthrough as Asisat Oshoala, the six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year, found the net just four minutes in, capitalizing on a well-coordinated move to give Nigeria the lead. The Super Falcons maintained control throughout the first half, with their calm and confident play evident during a water break at the 28-minute mark, where they led 1-0.

In the first minute of injury time in the first, Rinsola Babajide doubled Nigeria’s advantage, to secure a 2-0 lead going into the halftime break, sealing a commanding performance that left Tunisia struggling to respond. The Super Falcons added salt to injury by netting the third in the 84th minute from Chiwendu Ihezuo. Despite Tunisia’s efforts, led by key players like Mariem Houij and Sabrine Ellouzi, they were unable to breach Nigeria’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and defenders Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Oluwatosin Demehin, and Ashleigh Plumptre.

Head coach Justin Madugu’s squad, buoyed by recent friendly wins over Ghana (3-1) and Cameroon (2-0), as well as a goalless draw against Portugal, displayed tactical discipline and physical prowess. Madugu’s decision to include Oshoala and midfielder Halimatu Ayinde in the starting lineup paid dividends, despite initial criticism from some fans. “The girls are ready and are showing real hunger for victory,” Madugu had said prior to the match, emphasizing the team’s focus on their “Mission X” to reclaim continental glory.

Tunisia, ranked 89th globally and in their third WAFCON appearance, struggled to match Nigeria’s intensity. Coach Kamel Saada had acknowledged the Super Falcons’ quality, particularly highlighting Oshoala as a key threat, but his side could not overcome Nigeria’s superior experience and firepower. The Eagles of Carthage, who reached the quarterfinals in 2022, showed spirit but were outclassed by a Nigerian side with a storied history of 45 WAFCON wins and 176 goals.

The match, broadcast live on AfroSport and SuperSport, drew significant attention as Nigeria aims to overcome recent opening-match struggles, having lost their first games in the past two WAFCON editions. This victory sets a positive tone for their Group B campaign, where they will face Botswana and Algeria next. With World Cup qualification also at stake, the Super Falcons are poised to continue their dominant run in African women’s football.