Ashleigh Plumptre Super Falcons goal seals Nigeria’s 2026 WAFCON qualification after a 1–1 draw with Benin Republic in Abeokuta

Ashleigh Plumptre Super Falcons goal lit up the night in Abeokuta as the defender scored her first-ever goal for Nigeria, helping the team secure qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

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The Al-Ittihad star, who switched allegiance from England in 2022, struck midway through the first half with a fierce left-footed finish, giving the home crowd at the MKO Abiola Stadium every reason to celebrate.

Benin Republic levelled in the second half through Yasminath Djibril’s powerful header, but the 1–1 draw was not enough to overturn Nigeria’s first-leg lead.

The Super Falcons, who had won 2–0 in Cotonou the previous week, advanced 3–1 on aggregate to book their ticket to next year’s continental showpiece.

Speaking after the match, Plumptre could not hide her delight at opening her scoring account for Nigeria.

“It’s a really special moment for me,” she said. “I’m just happy to have contributed. The fans have been incredible, and this team deserves to be at WAFCON.”

Head coach Justin Madugu praised his side’s composure and focus, describing the result as mission accomplished.

“We knew what was at stake,” he said. “The first-leg win gave us confidence, but it was important to finish the job in front of our supporters here.”

With qualification now secured, the Super Falcons will turn their attention to preparations for the 2026 WAFCON, where they aim to extend their record of 11 titles and build momentum toward the next FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign.

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Plumptre’s goal — a moment of brilliance and belief — capped a night that reaffirmed Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football and the growing influence of one of its brightest defensive stars.