In a night of crisp finishing, tactical maturity, and emotional tributes, Nigeria’s Super Falcons kick-started their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Casablanca with a commanding 3-0 win over Tunisia.
It’s a victory that’s precise, powerful, and a reminder of why the nine-time African champions remain the team to beat on the continent.
Here are five key takeaways from a performance that was as polished as it was purposeful:
1. Rinsola Babajide Lights Up Casablanca
Back on African soil with a point to prove, Rinsola Babajide wasted no time making her presence felt.
The former Liverpool winger was unplayable in the first half — laying on a perfect assist for Asisat Oshoala and scoring herself just before the break.
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⚽️ ⒼⓄⒶⓁ: Nigeria have doubled their lead just before the break!
2⃣➖0⃣
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https://t.co/26PdrPrnVE#SABCSportFootball #TotalEnergiesWAFCON2024 pic.twitter.com/kk7CGCHGHh— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) July 6, 2025
Her goal celebration, a touching Diogo Jota tribute, spoke to her emotional connection with the game and her journey. This was her best game yet in a Nigeria shirt.
2. Madugu’s Tactical Switches Worked a Treat
Justin Madugu made three half-time substitutions, a move that could have unsettled Nigeria’s rhythm. Instead, it brought freshness and a third goal.
Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo, both second-half subs, combined for the final strike. Credit the manager for reading the game and managing minutes expertly.
3. Plumptre’s Growing Influence
Ashleigh Plumptre was quietly one of the most influential players on the pitch, even on a day that many Nigerian stars produced several eye-catching displays.
Not only was she solid defensively, but her offensive contributions — including the teasing cross that led to Nigeria’s third — showed her increasing confidence in the final third. A complete performance from the former Leicester City defender.
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⚽️ ⒼⓄⒶⓁ: The Super Flacons make it three!
3⃣➖0⃣
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SABC Sport | SABC 3
https://t.co/26PdrPrnVE#SABCSportFootball #TotalEnergiesWAFCON2024 pic.twitter.com/J2UhzznLha— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) July 6, 2025
4. 29 Group Stage Wins and Counting For the Super Falcons
This win marks Nigeria’s 29th group stage victory in WAFCON history (P37 W29 D5 L3).
It points to the Super Falcons’ long-standing dominance in African women’s football. No other team has come close to matching this consistency. It’s a staggering legacy — and one that’s still very much alive.
5. A Title Charge in Full Swing
Make no mistake: Nigeria want their 10th title. The ruthlessness, balance, and depth on display were telling.
They played with maturity, hunger, and cohesion — hallmarks of past champion teams. With Madugu’s blend of experience and emerging stars, the Super Falcons are very much in the mood to conquer Africa once again.