Soccer
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has made her intentions clear ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Soccernet.ng reports.
South Africa are the tournament’s defending champions while hosts Morocco reached the final last time out but Ajibade is convinced that Nigeria will not just be showing up – they are showing up to win.
Having previously lifted the WAFCON trophy in 2018 and clinched the Golden Boot at the 2022 edition, Ajibade now eyes a new milestone: leading Nigeria to a record-extending tenth continental title as skipper.
What did the Super Falcons skipper say?
“Coming back to Morocco and playing this tournament is always a dream come true for me because it’s the biggest competition in Africa, that’s what makes it so special for me,” Ajibade said.
“As a team and personally, we are going to be competing to win it.”
Ajibade, who skippered Nigeria at the 2024 Olympic Games, will be wearing the captain’s armband for the first time at a major African tournament.
The former Atlético Madrid star is under no illusions about the weight of expectation. But far from being daunted, the electrifying forward insists she’s embracing the pressure with confidence.
“It’s a privilege and a huge honour to captain the Super Falcons of Nigeria. It’s a huge responsibility and I do not take it for granted, but to be honest, there’s no pressure at all,” Ajibade said.
“Even if there is, I’ve learned to manage every situation that I find myself and I have to perceive it positively and use it to help the team in the best possible way.”
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The Super Falcons, nine-time champions and by far the most dominant force in African women’s football, open their 2025 campaign on July 6 with a headline clash against Tunisia. They will also face Botswana and Algeria in Group B.
Veteran heads like Osinachi Ohale, Francisca Ordega, and Asisat Oshoala bring invaluable experience to the side, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie — Africa’s best for the second year running — stands as a formidable last line of defence.
Coach Justin Madugu’s squad also boasts a blend of proven talent and emerging stars.
Defenders like Michelle Alozie, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Tosin Demehin have impressed in the buildup, while midfield enforcers Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun and Jennifer Echegini are expected to set the tempo.
In attack, Nigeria is stacked. Oshoala, Ihezuo, Onumonu, and Babajide offer variety and potency, with Ajibade’s leadership and versatility acting as the glue in a frontline built for damage.
Nigeria’s preparations have been boosted by an impressive goalless draw against Portugal in Lisbon and two morale-boosting victories over Cameroon and Ghana.
With $1 million on offer for the champions — the largest prize money ever awarded in WAFCON history — motivation is sky-high.
As the 13th edition kicks off in Morocco, the Super Falcons are not there to make up the numbers. They’re ready to write another chapter of dominance — and Ajibade is poised to lead them to it.
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad.
From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.
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