Nigeria’s Super Falcons began their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on a positive note, securing a 2-1 win over Senegal’s Teranga Lionesses in an entertaining international friendly.
The match, played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State, drew a lively crowd and delivered a strong performance from the nine-time African champions. It also marked the first senior-level meeting between Nigeria and Senegal in women’s football, adding extra significance to the encounter.
For interim head coach Justin Madugu, the fixture served as an important opportunity to assess his squad, especially with the return of several experienced players based abroad who had not featured since the last WAFCON tournament.
Strong First Half Performance Sets the Tone
Madugu named a solid starting lineup that blended experience with tactical discipline. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade led the side, supported by key figures in defense and attack, including Francisca Ordega. However, much of the attention before kickoff was on the return of Asisat Oshoala and Toni Payne, both making their first appearances since Nigeria’s triumph at WAFCON 2024.
From the opening minutes, Nigeria imposed themselves on the game. The team controlled possession, pressed high up the pitch, and limited Senegal’s ability to build any meaningful attacks. Their dominance eventually paid off midway through the first half.
Around the 32nd minute, Nigeria were awarded a penalty after a handball inside Senegal’s penalty area. Oshoala stepped forward with confidence and calmly converted the spot kick, giving the home side a deserved lead.
Nigeria continued to push forward, and their persistence resulted in a second goal shortly before halftime. A well-constructed move started from the back, with Shukurat Oladipo delivering an excellent pass that split the Senegalese defense. Toni Payne timed her run perfectly and finished with precision to make it 2-0.
The Super Falcons nearly added a third goal before the break, but Senegal’s goalkeeper, Khady Faye, made an impressive save to deny Ajibade after a flowing attacking move.
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Second Half Brings Changes and Late Drama
The rhythm of the match shifted after the break as Madugu made several substitutions to test different players and combinations. While Nigeria still created a few chances, the changes disrupted their earlier attacking flow.
There were moments of promise, including a neat attacking sequence involving Ajibade and Christy Ucheibe, which led to a dangerous cross from Folashade Ijamilusi aimed at Oshoala. However, the same level of control seen in the first half was harder to maintain.
As Nigeria focused on managing their lead, Senegal gradually grew into the game. Their persistence paid off late in the match when Sokhna Pene produced a stunning long-range effort in the 86th minute. The strike beat the Nigerian goalkeeper and reduced the scoreline to 2-1, setting up a tense finish.
Despite the late pressure, Nigeria showed composure and experience in the closing minutes. They slowed down the tempo, kept possession effectively, and prevented Senegal from finding an equalizer.
Match Summary
- Competition: International Friendly (WAFCON 2026 preparation)
- Venue: Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne-Remo
- Final Score: Nigeria 2, Senegal 1
- Nigeria Scorers: Asisat Oshoala (penalty, 32nd minute), Toni Payne (43rd minute)
- Senegal Scorer: Sokhna Pene (86th minute)
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Focus Shifts to Second Friendly
Although the result will boost confidence, the coaching crew will likely review areas that need improvement, particularly the late goal conceded. Defensive organization and maintaining intensity throughout the full match will be key focus points ahead of the tournament.
Nigeria and Senegal are scheduled to meet again in a second friendly on Monday, June 8, 2026, at the same venue. The match is expected to provide further opportunities for squad rotation, as Madugu continues to evaluate his options and finalize his team ahead of WAFCON in Morocco next month.
With a winning start already secured, the Super Falcons will aim to build momentum and sharpen their performance as they prepare for another continental challenge.
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