Super Falcons edge Senegal 2-1 in WAFCON friendly

Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, the Super Falcons, opened their 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) preparations with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Senegal’s Teranga Lionesses in Ikenne-Remo on Friday.

Oshoala Marks Return with Composed Penalty

The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Nigeria were awarded a penalty, which veteran forward Asisat Oshoala calmly converted to give the hosts the lead.

The goal marked Oshoala’s first appearance for the Super Falcons since the WAFCON 2024 final, and she immediately made an impact, displaying trademark composure from the spot.

Payne Doubles Lead in Controlled First Half

Nigeria maintained their attacking rhythm and control after going ahead, dominating possession and stretching the Senegal defence.

Their pressure paid off in the 43rd minute when Toni Payne finished off a well-worked move to double the advantage. Like Oshoala, Payne was also making her return to the national team setup following her last appearance at WAFCON 2024, underlining the experience and depth in the squad.

Senegal Fight Back Late

The Super Falcons dictated the tempo for much of the encounter, limiting Senegal’s attacking threat for long spells.

However, the visitors reduced the deficit in the 86th minute, scoring to set up a tense final phase. Nigeria, though, managed the closing stages with composure to secure the win.

First-Ever Meeting Adds Significance

The fixture marked the first-ever meeting between both sides, adding historical context to an already competitive encounter as both teams step up preparations for the upcoming WAFCON tournament.

Focus Shifts to Second Friendly

Both teams will meet again in a second friendly at the same venue in Ikenne-Remo on June 8, as preparations continue.

Head Coach Justine Madugu and his squad remain focused on fine-tuning their tactics ahead of the tournament in Morocco, where the Super Falcons will aim to defend their continental crown.