- The hosts dominated much of the opening half and were rewarded in the 32nd minute when Toni Payne opened the scoring
- Super Falcons maintained control after the break, enjoying the majority of possession
- The two countries are scheduled to face each other again on June 8 at the same venue
Nigeria’s Super Falcons kicked off their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Senegal in an international friendly played at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne, Ogun State, on Friday.
Eko Hot Blog gathered the African champions delivered an encouraging performance as they began fine-tuning their squad ahead of the continental tournament scheduled to take place in Morocco later this year.
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The hosts dominated much of the opening half and were rewarded in the 32nd minute when Toni Payne opened the scoring. The Everton midfielder finished off a well-worked attacking move after receiving a precise pass from right-back Shukurat Oladipo.
Nigeria doubled their advantage before halftime after being awarded a penalty. Veteran forward Asisat Oshoala calmly converted from the spot to mark her return to the national team with a goal.
The Super Falcons maintained control after the break, enjoying the majority of possession and creating several opportunities to extend their lead.
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade came close to adding a third goal, but her effort was denied by Senegalese goalkeeper Khadi Faye.
Despite Nigeria’s dominance, Senegal found a way back into the contest late in the game. In the 87th minute, Sokhna Pene struck from long range to reduce the deficit and briefly raise hopes of a comeback for the Teranga Lionesses.
However, the side coached by Justine Madugu remained composed under pressure and successfully protected their lead until the final whistle.
The encounter marked the first-ever meeting between Nigeria and Senegal at senior women’s level and served as an important test for both teams ahead of the upcoming WAFCON competition.
The two countries are scheduled to face each other again on June 8 at the same venue as they continue preparations for the tournament.
Nigeria, the most successful team in the history of the competition, will be aiming to secure another continental title when the championship begins, while the coaching crew continues to assess players and refine tactics ahead of the campaign.
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