Super Falcons Begin WAFCON Quest with Dominant 3-0 Win

Nigeria’s Super Falcons kicked off their quest for a record-extending tenth CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title with an emphatic 3-0 triumph over Tunisia in Group B action on Sunday at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco.

The reigning champions wasted no time asserting dominance, as Asisat Oshoala struck early in the fourth minute, powering home a precise header from Omorinsola Babajide’s well-placed cross.

The nine-time continental champions dominated the opening half, keeping Tunisia on the back foot with sustained pressure and aggressive wing play. Despite Tunisia’s resilient defending, Nigeria extended their lead just before halftime.

Omorinsola Babajide, a constant menace on the flank, raced onto a through ball and slotted a low shot into the bottom corner, with the goal standing after a short VAR check, making it 2-0.

The Super Falcons introduced Chinwendu Ihezuo, Esther Okoronkwo, and Christy Ucheibe at halftime, a trio of changes that brought renewed energy to the pitch.

Nigeria maintained their grip on the game, with Okoronkwo and Ashleigh Plumptre narrowly missing chances, while Michelle Alozie posed a constant threat with her surging runs down the flank. Tunisia nearly found a lifeline when Salma Zemzem rattled the crossbar late on, but the Falcons sealed the victory in the 84th minute as Ihezuo calmly finished from close range to make it 3-0.

The Super Falcons’ speed, strength, and wealth of experience proved too much for a youthful Tunisian side aiming to improve on their 2022 quarter-final performance.

Breaking a streak dating back to 2016, Nigeria secured their first opening-match win at a WAFCON with a dominant showing that underlined their intent.

The victory puts Nigeria at the top of Group B as they prepare for their next match, while Tunisia must quickly regroup to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.