Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide delivered a stunning performance as Nigeria opened their 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a dominant 3-0 win over Tunisia on Sunday at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco.
The nine-time champions wasted no time stamping their authority, taking the lead in just the 3rd minute. Babajide delivered a pinpoint free kick that was headed home by captain Asisat Oshoala, setting the tone for what would become a one-sided encounter.
Just before halftime, Babajide turned from provider to scorer. In the 45th minute, she slotted in Nigeria’s second goal after beating the Tunisian goalkeeper, marking the moment with a Diogo Jota-inspired celebration in tribute to the late Liverpool star and his brother, Andre Silva, who tragically passed away days earlier.
The Falcons dominated possession and created several chances in the second half. Returnee Ashleigh Plumptre nearly added a third with a long-range effort, but the Tunisian goalkeeper pulled off an impressive save to deny her.
The breakthrough eventually came in the 80th minute, as Chinwendu Ihezuo calmly finished with her left foot into the bottom corner, sealing a well-deserved 3-0 victory.
With the win, the Super Falcons have sent a strong message to their rivals as they seek redemption after their semi-final exit in 2022 and aim for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
