Super Falcons Dodge Tanzania Shock With Late Goal Thriller Ahead of WAFCON Title Defense

Nigeria’s Super Falcons wrapped up their pre-tournament preparations on a high note, pulling off a gritty 2-1 victory over Tanzania’s Twiga Stars in a thrilling final warm-up match in Casablanca.

The ten-time African champions came out pressing high from the opening whistle, taking control of the midfield early on. Their early dominance paid off in the 15th minute when winger Rinsola Babajide carved open the Tanzanian defense and set up captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who calmly slotted the ball home to give Nigeria an early advantage.

Despite controlling large spells of possession and creating additional chances before the break, the Falcons were unable to extend their lead. Looking to test his team’s versatility, head coach Justine Madugu made tactical adjustments in the second half, shuffling his line-up with a wave of substitutions that brought on Michelle Alozie, Uchenna Kanu, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Joy Omewa.

However, the East African side refused to back down. Capitalizing on a rare lapse in the Nigerian defensive line, Tanzania struck back in the 79th minute with a shock equalizer that threatened to spoil the West Africans’ pre-tournament momentum.

Refusing to settle for a draw, the Super Falcons poured forward in search of a late winner. The decisive moment arrived just a minute before stoppage time, when captain Ajibade turned provider, laying off a precise pass to substitute Esther Okoronkwo, who buried her shot into the net in the 89th minute to restore Nigeria’s lead.

“Games like this show the character of a champion,” remarked head coach Justine Madugu after the final whistle. “We needed a tough test that pushed us right to the end, and the girls showed great composure to regain the lead when Tanzania drew level. It gives us the right intensity and mindset as we move to Rabat for the tournament proper.”

The warm-up match also marked the official unveiling of Nigeria’s brand-new tournament kit, featuring 10 embroidered stars across the crest to honor the nation’s decade of continental domination. With friendly fixtures completed, the squad now shifts base to Rabat, where they will begin their WAFCON title defense against tournament debutants Malawi at the Al Madina Stadium.