The Super Falcons opened their final preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a convincing 2-1 victory over Senegal in an international friendly at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne on Friday, with Asisat Oshoala and Toni Payne providing the goals for Justine Madugu’s side, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Nigeria dominated from the first whistle, controlling possession and pressing Senegal deep into their own half throughout the opening period.
Oshoala and Funmilayo Ijamilusi both came close before the breakthrough arrived in the 32nd minute, when the referee spotted a handball inside the Senegal box and pointed to the spot.
Oshoala stepped up and converted with her customary composure, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.
The veteran forward, who marked the occasion by wearing wristbands bearing the messages “Save the teachers” and “Bring back our children”, added a personal dimension to what was already a purposeful display.
Four minutes before half-time, Payne doubled the advantage, finishing low beyond the goalkeeper after being left unmarked following a corner, with Shukurat Oladipo the provider.
Madugu handed Portsmouth goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor her senior debut between the posts, while Rasheedat Ajibade, Francisca Ordega and Christy Ucheibe all featured in a strong starting lineup that reflected the depth available to the defending champions.
Senegal improved after the interval and grew into the game, testing Nigeria’s defensive structure with greater frequency.
The Super Falcons managed the threat well for most of the second half, but a lapse in the 86th minute allowed Sokhna Nogaye to pull one back with a long-range strike, denying Erhabor a clean sheet on her debut and setting up a nervy finish.
Nigeria held on.
The result was Nigeria’s first over Senegal since a 3-0 friendly victory in 2018 and continued the Super Falcons’ strong form heading into the tournament. Nigeria head into WAFCON as defending champions, having lifted their 10th continental title last year, and will target an 11th when the competition begins in Morocco on July 26.
Madugu’s side have been drawn alongside Egypt, Malawi and Zambia in the group stage.
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