By Prosper Mene
After leading Nigeria’s Super Falcons to their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, captain Rasheedat Ajibade has revealed how the team can win the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Speaking at a reception hosted by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Ajibade outlined a clear path to global success.
The Super Falcons won the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over the hosts, thanks to goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini. Ajibade, named Player of the Tournament, believes the team can achieve more. “We’ve conquered Africa again. Now, we aim for the world,” she said.
Below is Ajibade’s plan for World Cup glory:
Better Support: Ajibade called for more funding, better training facilities, and regular matches against top teams to prepare for the World Cup.
Improved Tactics: Under coach Justin Madugu, the team played an exciting, attacking style. Ajibade wants to keep improving their game, especially defending set pieces.
Young Talent: She emphasized nurturing young players from Nigeria’s U-20 and U-17 teams to strengthen the squad.
Strong Mindset: Ajibade highlighted the team’s fighting spirit, shown in their WAFCON comeback, as key to winning tough matches.
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu urged the team to aim high, saying, “I told Mr. President you need to win the World Cup, and Rasheedat agrees it’s possible!” The Super Falcons have reached every Women’s World Cup since 1991, with their best result being the quarterfinals in 1999. Their 2023 performance, including a win over Australia, proved they can compete with the best.
Fans are excited about Ajibade’s vision. “This team has what it takes,” said sports journalist Biola Solace-Chukwu. With the 2027 World Cup approaching, Ajibade and the Super Falcons are ready to chase history and bring pride to Nigeria.
