Nigeria’s Super Falcons have booked their place at next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after overcoming the Amazons of Benin 3–1 on aggregate in the final qualifying round.

The 10-time African champions, who won the first leg 2–0 in Lome, Togo, were held to a 1–1 draw by the Beninoise side in the return fixture at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Tuesday.

The home fans were treated to an early moment of brilliance when Ashleigh Plumptre opened the scoring in the 12th minute — her first-ever goal for the Super Falcons. The defender rose highest to nod home a pinpoint cross from Esther Okoronkwo, giving Nigeria a deserved lead.

The visitors, however, refused to be overawed and pulled level in the 80th minute after sustained pressure, punishing a missed chance moments earlier by team captain Rasheedat Ajibade.

Despite the late equaliser, Nigeria’s aggregate advantage ensured their qualification for the continental showpiece, where they will defend the title they have won a record 10 times.

Benin, who fielded as many as 10 foreign-based players, put up a spirited display and matched the Falcons for much of the contest, earning praise from the home crowd for their resilience.

With qualification now secured, Nigeria will turn their attention to preparations for the 2025 WAFCON, as head coach Randy Waldrum looks to build a formidable squad capable of retaining the continental crown.