Nigeria’s Super Falcons kicked off their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on a winning note, defeating Senegal 2–1 in an international friendly on Friday.
The match, played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State, saw veteran forward Asisat Oshoala mark her return to the national team with the opening goal. The six-time African Women’s Player of the Year converted from the penalty spot in the 32nd minute to hand Nigeria the lead.
Oshoala’s strike came in her first appearance for the Super Falcons since the WAFCON 2024 final. Nigeria dominated possession and dictated the pace of the game throughout the opening half, limiting Senegal’s attacking threat.
The Falcons extended their advantage two minutes before the break when Toni Payne finished off a well-crafted team move in the 43rd minute. Like Oshoala, Payne was making her first appearance for Nigeria since the 2024 WAFCON finals.
Nigeria remained in control for much of the contest, creating chances and keeping the Teranga Lionesses largely on the back foot. Senegal, however, pulled a goal back in the 86th minute to set up a nervy finish.
Despite the late scare, the Super Falcons stayed composed and saw out the game to secure a deserved victory.
The encounter marked the first-ever meeting between Nigeria’s Super Falcons and Senegal’s Teranga Lionesses. Both sides are using the friendlies as part of their build-up to the next WAFCON tournament, which will be hosted in Morocco.
The two teams will face off again in a second friendly at the same venue on Monday, with Nigeria continuing its preparations as it targets a successful defence of its continental crown.
NAN
