In the pouring rain of Abeokuta, the Super Falcons served a reminder to the rest of Africa — and perhaps to themselves — of what they are capable of when rhythm meets resolve.
A 2-0 victory over familiar foes Cameroon may have been billed as a mere warm-up, but it was anything but cold. Instead, it felt like the first few sparks of something bigger, brighter — a prelude to a potentially thrilling WAFCON campaign.
Here are five things Soccernet.ng learnt from Nigeria’s confident display against the Indomitable Lionesses:
1. Rasheedat Ajibade is more than just captain — she’s the catalyst
When it mattered most, Rasheedat Ajibade led from the front, quite literally. Her first goal came from the penalty spot — cool, precise, clinical. But it was her second that really underlined her class.
Latching onto Babajide’s low cross from the left flank, Ajibade showed composure and conviction, a sign of a player fully tuned to her leadership responsibilities. She didn’t just score — she inspired.
2. Madugu’s tactical identity is beginning to take shape
Nigeria’s shape was compact without the ball and expressive in possession.
There was an evident switch to short, progressive passing in midfield — with Echegini and Payne recycling the ball smartly — and width came naturally through Babajide. The Super Falcons didn’t just look good; they looked coached.
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3. The blend of local and overseas-based talent is working for the Super Falcons
Nine Europe-based players were involved from the start, but this wasn’t a case of foreign imports doing all the heavy lifting.
Home-based names like Bolaji Olamide and Emem Essien slotted in well when introduced, showing no signs of tactical disconnect. That chemistry will be crucial heading into WAFCON, where cohesion often trumps reputation.
4. Chiamaka Nnadozie’s presence calms the storm
She didn’t have much to do — and that’s often the sign of a dominant team — but when called upon late in the second half, Nnadozie was assured, vocal, and commanding.
Her calm presence is gold dust for a team looking to build from the back.
5. Babajide’s injury lightly mars an otherwise perfect night
Omorinsola Babajide had been electric — creating one, nearly scoring another, and constantly threatening down the right — before being forced off with a knock.
Nigeria will hope it’s nothing serious, because her dynamism in wide areas gives this side an edge they’ve sorely missed in previous tournaments.
Soccernet.ng’s final whistle
In truth, this win was more than just another tick in the victory column — it was a marker of intent.
Justin Madugu has something building here: a team blending talent with tactical clarity, leadership with balance, and flair with structure. The Super Falcons aren’t just warming up. They’re heating up — and Africa should take note.