As the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) approaches in Morocco, the Super Falcons are pushing forward with determination despite recent challenges that have distracted the team.
On Tuesday at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Rasheedat Ajibade delivered a brace to secure a 2-0 victory for Nigeria over Cameroon in a friendly match. It marked the team’s first gathering since November 2024, after missing two international windows earlier this year.
The last international match played by the 11-time African champions was a high-profile friendly in November 2024, where they narrowly lost 2-1 to France. Prior to that, they played Algeria in a two-legged friendly series in Lagos and Ikenne in October 2024.
With the tournament just weeks away, the Nigeria Football Federation had originally scheduled a two-legged warm-up against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon. However, due to logistical issues, only one match took place.
After the win on Tuesday, Ajibade reflected on the team’s readiness and their ambitions heading into the WAFCON, where they hope to clinch a historic 10th title.
“The mood is positive right now,” she said. “Even though there are some distractions, we know what is expected of us. Playing for Nigeria is always an honour. We’re motivated and excited about the tournament, and we’re fully committed to giving our best.”
Scheduled to run from July 5 to 26 in Morocco, the 2024 WAFCON will see Nigeria compete in Group B against Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana.
The tournament also marks a pivotal moment in Ajibade’s career, as she is set to move to a new club next season. The striker recently bid farewell to Atlético Madrid Femenino, where she spent four successful years, racking up 139 appearances and 40 goals.
During her time at the club, Ajibade won the 2021 Spanish Super Cup and the 2023 Copa de la Reina, solidifying her place as one of the team’s most influential players.
