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The Super Falcons of Nigeria have qualified for next year’s Women Africa Cup of Nations, securing a 3-1 aggregate victory over the Benin Republic. The defending champions achieved this with a 1-1 draw in the return leg of the final qualifying series held at MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta on Tuesday. The Benin “Amazons” launched a vibrant challenge, led by the pacy duo of Dossi Germaine Honfo and Yenido Romaine Gandonou. Despite Benin’s initial vigor, the Super Falcons remained composed. Nigeria’s control was evident early on. In the 8th minute, Captain Rasheedat Ajibade put Asisat Oshoala through, forcing a desperate clearance from the Amazons’ rearguard. The pressure soon paid off. Just five minutes later, Ashley Plumptre found the scoresheet, converting an Esther Okoronkwo corner kick with a firm header to give the Falcons the lead. The Super Falcons maintained pressure after their goal, with Oshoala missing narrowly from an Okoronkwo corner in the 23rd minute, and Alozie’s header going high in the 34th. The one-sided traffic ended when the Benin Amazons mounted a serious threat in the 56th minute, forcing keeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to make back-to-back saves from Gandonou and Yolande Gnammi. The turning point came on the hour mark when Yasminath Djibril launched a free-kick from the left that sailed high into the net for the equalizer. Despite the setback, Nigeria created more opportunities. Folashade Ijamilusi missed a golden chance after the Benin keeper dropped the ball, and Alassane later saved from Ajibade in the 77th minute, keeping the score level. The 3-1 aggregate triumph means Nigeria not only progresses to the WAFCON finals in Morocco next year but also keeps two bigger prizes in sight – defending their title to win an 11th championship and securing a vital berth at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
