Super Falcons Edge Tanzania 2-1 in Closed-Door Pre-WAFCON Friendly

Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their final warm-up match ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday.

The friendly was played behind closed doors in Casablanca. The decision was deliberate, allowing head coach Justine Madugu and his technical team to work on tactics, test combinations, and assess players without external scrutiny.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade opened the scoring in the 15th minute after a precise assist from Rinsola Babajide. Nigeria controlled much of the first half and went into the break leading 1-0.

Around the 20-minute mark, Rofiat Imuran was forced off and replaced by Glory Ogbonna.

Tanzania equalised in the 79th minute, but the Super Falcons responded strongly. Justine Madugu made a series of changes in the second half to manage minutes and test his depth.

Around the 55th minute, Folashade Ijamilusi, Uchenna Kanu, Michelle Alozie and Joy Omewa came on for Glory Ogbonna, Toni Payne, Rinsola Babajide and Asisat Oshoala.

Later, around the 75th minute, Esther Okoronkwo, Osinachi Ohale and Halimatu Ayinde were introduced in place of Christy Ucheibe, Sikiratu Isah and Joy Omewa.

The changes paid off. In the 89th minute, Esther Okoronkwo restored Nigeria’s lead with a well-taken finish, assisted by Rasheedat Ajibade, to seal a valuable 2-1 win..

Because the match was held privately for tactical purposes, limited details on the pattern of play and individual performances were released. The focus remained on preparation rather than public performance.

All invited Super Falcons players are now in camp ahead of the tournament. Nigeria will open their WAFCON 2026 title defence against debutants Malawi on Tuesday, 28 July at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat. The Super Falcons are drawn in Group C alongside Malawi, Zambia and Egypt.

Tanzania begin their Group B campaign against South Africa on Sunday, 27 July.

With the squad now complete and a positive result secured under controlled conditions, the Super Falcons now turn full attention to defending their continental crown.