July 13, (THEWILL) — Four minutes into the Super Falcons’ opening match at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Asisat Oshoala rose above a crowded Tunisian penalty area, meeting Rinsola Babajide’s precise free-kick with a powerful header that sparked wild celebrations at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morrocco. This early goal set the tone for Nigeria’s commanding 3-0 victory over Tunisia on July 6, marking a confident start to their pursuit of a record-extending 10th continental title, a campaign the Nigeria Football Federation has branded “Mission X.” Under the guidance of coach Justin Madugu, the Super Falcons followed this triumph with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Botswana last Thursday, earning their place in the quarter-finals. These results signal Nigeria’s intent to reclaim their dominance in African women’s football, but they also highlight challenges in a competitive landscape where rivals are closing the gap.
The Super Falcons have long been the standard-bearer of African women’s football. With nine titles from 12 editions of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations since 1998, they have won 48 of 61 matches, a record unmatched by any other nation. Their most recent triumph came in 2018, when they defeated South Africa 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw. However, the 2022 tournament in Morocco exposed vulnerabilities, as Nigeria lost to South Africa, Morocco and Zambia, finishing fourth, their worst performance in the competition’s history. This setback, coupled with a group-stage exit at the 2024 Paris Olympics, has fueled the team’s determination to restore their legacy. The Nigeria Football Federation’s “Mission X” campaign reflects this ambition, aiming to galvanise players and fans alike for a 10th title, referred to as “La Decima.” The return of fitness coach Per Karlsson, whose expertise was evident in the team’s high-energy performance against Tunisia, has bolstered their preparations, while Justin Madugu’s appointment as head coach signals a new chapter after Randy Waldrum’s departure last year.
The 3-0 victory over Tunisia exhibited Nigeria’s attacking potential and defensive solidity. Oshoala, a six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year, opened the scoring in the fourth minute, capitalising on Babajide’s well-delivered free-kick. Babajide, making her tournament debut after switching allegiance from England in 2023, doubled the lead just before half-time with a clinical finish past Tunisia’s goalkeeper, Soulaima Jobrani. Her goal, followed by a celebration paying tribute to a former Super Eagles star, highlighted her emotional connection to the team. Substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo sealed the win in the 84th minute, converting a cross from Ashleigh Plumptre. Nigeria dominated possession and exploited Tunisia’s defensive gaps with pace and width, though they survived a scare when a penalty decision against Osinachi Ohale was overturned by VAR in the 76th minute. Madugu, while pleased with the result, noted the team’s wastefulness in front of goal, a sentiment echoed by former captain Desire Oparanozie, who described the performance as dominant but lacking clinical finishing.
The subsequent match against Botswana on Thursday tested Nigeria’s resolve. Expected to overpower the lowest-ranked team in the tournament, the Super Falcons struggled to break down a stubborn Botswana defence, managing only a 1-0 victory through Ihezuo’s 89th-minute goal. The Mexico-based striker, introduced as a substitute, latched onto a loose ball in the box to secure Nigeria’s place in the quarter-finals, becoming the first team to advance. Despite the win, the performance questions Madugu’s tactical decisions and the team’s inability to convert chances. Madugu himself acknowledged the challenge, stating that Botswana’s spirited play and Nigeria’s occasional lapses in focus made the match tougher than anticipated. He also confirmed plans to rotate the squad for the final group match against Algeria, especially with midfielder Deborah Abiodun suspended after receiving a second yellow card.
Tactically, Madugu has employed a 4-3-3 formation, emphasising high pressing and wing play. Against Tunisia, Babajide and Toni Payne stretched the opposition’s defence, creating space for Oshoala’s runs. The midfield, anchored by Abiodun and Halimatu Ayinde, provided energy but lacked cohesion at times, with Abiodun’s advanced role against Tunisia nearly proving costly due to her clumsy challenge on Raina Aouina. Madugu’s second-half adjustments, including a triple substitution of Abiodun, Oshoala, and Babajide for Christy Ucheibe, Esther Okoronkwo, and Ihezuo, revitalised the attack. Okoronkwo, named CAF’s Woman of the Match, nearly scored and assisted Ihezuo’s goal, demonstrating the squad’s depth. However, the Botswana match exposed ongoing issues with finishing and structure. Oshoala and Babajide struggled to make an impact, and the team’s toothless possession underscored the need for sharper attacking play. Karlsson’s fitness work has been a clear asset, enabling Nigeria to maintain intensity late in games, as evidenced by Ihezuo’s decisive strike against Botswana. This physical edge could prove critical in knockout stages, where endurance often decides tight contests.
The Super Falcons’ squad blends experience with youth. Oshoala, despite a goalless run in 11 NWSL matches for Bay FC in 2025, remains a focal point, with Madugu praising her as a “jewel” for her 31 international goals. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, the 2022 WAFCON joint-top scorer, drives the team from midfield, though she admitted limited bonding time has affected cohesion. Chiamaka Nnadozie, named CAF Goalkeeper of the Year in 2023 and 2024, anchors the defence with her reflexes and positioning, conceding only six goals in 14 matches since the 2023 World Cup. Plumptre’s versatility, allowing her to play centre-back, left-back or holding midfield, adds tactical flexibility, while veterans like Osinachi Ohale and Francisca Ordega provide stability. Emerging talents like Babajide, Okoronkwo and Ihezuo signal a transition, with Babajide’s flair and Okoronkwo’s impact off the bench being crucial so far. However, ageing stars like Oshoala and Ordega slowing down in pace calls for younger players to take prominence.
Achieving La Decima would reaffirm Nigeria’s dominance in a region where South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia are gaining ground. South Africa, the 2022 champions, defeated Nigeria in the group stage that year, while Morocco’s semi-final win over a depleted Nigerian side provided evidence of their growing strength, bolstered by home support and players like Ghizlane Mssoudy. Zambia, led by Barbra Banda, and Equatorial Guinea, with their physical style, pose further threats.
A 10th title would not only restore Nigeria’s supremacy but also unite a nation facing economic and social challenges, offering a rare moment of collective pride.
Looking ahead, Nigeria faces Algeria in their final group match, a game Madugu plans to use for squad rotation. With Abiodun suspended, players like Ucheibe or Miracle Usani may step up, testing the team’s depth. Potential knockout clashes against South Africa, Morocco, or Zambia loom as defining tests, requiring Madugu to address the team’s profligacy and tactical inconsistencies. Nnadozie’s assertion that “we do everything in our power to always be who we are” reflects the squad’s resolve, but Madugu’s ability to adapt tactics to counter evolving opponents will be crucial. The Nigeria Football Federation’s administrative issues, including past disputes over unpaid bonuses and poor travel arrangements, remain a concern, though the Mission X campaign signals renewed focus.
The Super Falcons’ journey in Morocco is a test of their legacy and adaptability. The 3-0 win over Tunisia and the narrow victory against Botswana highlight both their potential and their flaws. With Madugu’s leadership, Karlsson’s fitness expertise, and a squad blending experience with emerging talent, Nigeria has the tools to achieve La Decima. Yet, the growing competitiveness of African women’s football demands precision and focus. For millions of Nigerians, a 10th title would be a triumph of national spirit, a moment to celebrate the Super Falcons as Africa’s football queens. As they march towards the quarter-finals, the call of Mission X echoes, urging players and fans to unite in pursuit of history.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
