Tremendous Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, says Nigeria’s 1–1 draw in opposition to Benin Republic in Abeokuta serves as a worthwhile lesson for the reigning African champions regardless of qualifying 3–1 on mixture for the 2026 Ladies’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Nigeria went into the return leg with a two-goal benefit after successful 2–0 within the first leg in Cotonou, however the guests shocked the hosts by forcing a draw on Tuesday night.
Talking after the sport, Ajibade admitted that the workforce’s efficiency was beneath normal however careworn that such video games present studying experiences and motivation to enhance.
“We anticipated a tricky match as a result of we noticed what occurred within the first leg,” Ajibade mentioned. “Benin had nothing to lose and gave the whole lot. Some extent in opposition to the Tremendous Falcons means lots to them, and you can see how they celebrated it. We simply must hold our competitors stage excessive and push ourselves to be higher.”
Ajibade, who captained the facet as soon as once more, expressed deep appreciation to the teaching crew and her teammates for trusting her management.
“Being the captain of those wonderful, gifted, skilled gamers is a big honour,” she mentioned. “I’m grateful for the arrogance the coach and everybody have in me. It motivates me to maintain main by instance.”
The Atletico Madrid ahead additionally prolonged gratitude to her membership, nationwide teammates, and followers after receiving a recognition award on the Nigeria Pitch Awards, dedicating it to everybody who has supported her soccer journey.
“To the subsequent technology of ladies — hold believing, hold working, your desires are legitimate,” Ajibade concluded.
The Tremendous Falcons will now concentrate on preparations for the 2026 WAFCON finals, the place they goal to defend their continental title as nicely concentrate on selecting one of many 4 obtainable 2027 FIFA World Ladies availble on the 2026 WAFCON.
