Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has admitted that Nigeria did not perform at its expected level in the second-leg clash against the Benin Republic, even though the team still did enough to secure qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria progressed on aggregate after recording a 3-1 overall victory across both legs. The goalless concerns from the return fixture were softened by the solid 2-0 advantage the Falcons had already built in Lome, allowing Tuesday’s 1-1 draw in Abeokuta to be enough for passage to the continental tournament in Morocco.
The match itself began positively for the home side at the MKO Abiola Stadium, with Ashleigh Plumptre giving Nigeria an early lead. The defender connected with a delivery from Esther Okoronkwo to put the Falcons in front, but the visitors responded in the second half when Yasminath Djibril found the equaliser, leaving the hosts unable to finish the evening with a win.
According to Gossip News Now, Ajibade made it clear after the final whistle that the team had not taken Benin lightly. She explained that the coaching crew and players expected a difficult contest, especially after seeing how Benin improved after the break in the first meeting between both countries.
The forward stressed that Nigeria were aware their opponents would come with greater determination in the return leg, and she dismissed any suggestion that complacency was responsible for the underwhelming display. In her view, the result should instead be seen as a warning that the team must continue to improve and avoid dropping its usual standards.
Ajibade also noted that the draw meant a lot to Benin, something she said was obvious from the way the visitors reacted at the end of the game. For Nigeria, however, the bigger lesson lies in responding positively, correcting mistakes, and maintaining focus as preparations begin for a much more demanding tournament next year.
That upcoming competition carries additional importance, as the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will also determine Africa’s qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. With that in mind, the Super Falcons are expected to treat every remaining preparatory window as crucial.
Away from the team result, Ajibade had another reason to reflect with pride after being named Best Female Footballer at the 2024 Nigeria Pitch Awards. She described the recognition as deeply meaningful, saying the year had tested and shaped her in several ways while also offering memorable moments in her career.
She expressed gratitude for the honour and suggested that the award represents more than personal success. To her, it also stands as encouragement for young girls with big ambitions, showing that persistence and belief can still open doors in football.
Commentary and Analysis
Ajibade’s response stands out because it balances honesty with leadership. Rather than hiding behind qualification, she openly acknowledged that the team fell short of expectations, which may be a healthy sign for a side that wants to remain dominant on the continent.
The Benin draw may not damage Nigeria’s campaign, but it does highlight areas that need attention before WAFCON begins. Stronger opponents are likely to punish lapses more severely, so the Super Falcons will need sharper execution, greater control, and more consistency.
On a personal level, Ajibade’s award recognition adds another layer to her current influence. She is not only leading Nigeria on the pitch, but also increasingly becoming one of the key voices shaping the mentality of the team heading into an important period.
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