As the Super Falcons prepare for a high-stakes semi-final clash against reigning champions South Africa, Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade has declared that the team is determined to maintain its unbeaten run and secure a record-extending tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.
Ajibade, who has featured in every match for coach Justine Madugu’s side at the 2024 tournament in Morocco, played a starring role in Friday’s emphatic 5–0 victory over Zambia, providing two assists in a dominant quarter-final display.
The result extended Nigeria’s tally to nine goals without conceding, reinforcing their status as tournament favourites.
Speaking after the game, the 25-year-old forward stressed the importance of maintaining momentum.
“It’s honestly not easy to play without conceding a goal from the start of a tournament,” she said. “We started very slow, but we’ve kept growing with each match.”
She added, “We have to keep working hard, keep the focus high, keep the energy high in the team, and ensure we’re giving our best every game. We want to keep making history for ourselves as players because we want to set a standard for those coming behind us.”
Ajibade, who previously played for Atlético Madrid Femenino, is no stranger to the WAFCON stage. She made her tournament debut during Nigeria’s 2018 title-winning campaign and emerged joint top scorer at the last edition also hosted in Morocco with three goals.
Nigeria’s victory over Zambia secured their place in the semi-finals, setting up a highly anticipated showdown with Banyana Banyana of South Africa, a repeat of the 2022 final. That encounter saw Nigeria fall short in a penalty shootout, making Tuesday’s meeting a chance for redemption.
Ajibade believes teamwork has been key to Nigeria’s performance so far.
“When the tournament started, we were 100 per cent focused on the group stage,” she explained. “Now it’s all about giving 120 per cent as a team.”
The Super Falcons, Africa’s most successful women’s national team, are eyeing a historic tenth WAFCON crown—a feat that would further solidify their legacy on the continent.
The semi-final against South Africa is scheduled for Tuesday in Rabat, with both teams eager to stamp their authority and reach the final.
