The Super Falcons of Nigeria, Africa’s most decorated women’s national football team, have long reigned supreme on the continent. With nine Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) titles to their name, their legacy is unrivaled — but in 2025, the stakes are even higher. The Nigerian team is on a mission: to clinch an unprecedented 10th WAFCON title, an achievement that would not only reaffirm their dominance but also serve as a historic milestone in African football.

As the 2025 edition of the tournament unfolds in Morocco, all eyes are on the Super Falcons. Led by a mixture of seasoned veterans, exciting young talents, and a new head coach in Justine Madugu, Nigeria is determined to turn “Mission X” — as fans and players have dubbed the campaign — into a victorious reality.

Since the inception of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in 1991, the Super Falcons have been the team to beat. They won the inaugural tournament and have gone on to win nine out of twelve editions to date. Their titles came in 1991, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018, showcasing remarkable consistency and dominance.

More than just statistics, these triumphs have helped shape the narrative around women’s football in Africa. Nigeria’s success has opened doors for the women’s game across the continent, inspiring generations of girls to pick up the ball and dream big.

Following the departure of American coach Randy Waldrum, who led the team to a respectable Round of 16 finish at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Nigerian Football Federation appointed Justine Madugu to lead the Super Falcons into the next era.

Madugu, a seasoned tactician with deep roots in the Nigerian football system, is widely respected for his ability to blend tactical structure with player freedom. His mission is clear: to bring balance and unity to a team overflowing with individual talent.

So far, his leadership has been marked by clarity and confidence. Under his guidance, the Falcons entered the 2025 WAFCON with renewed purpose and tactical discipline, as evidenced by their comprehensive 3-0 win over Tunisia in the opening Group B match.

Central to Nigeria’s quest are the women who continue to light up international football. At the heart of the team is Asisat Oshoala, the former Barcelona forward and six-time African Women’s Player of the Year. Now in her 30s, Oshoala remains one of the deadliest forwards in the world, combining speed, intelligence, and finishing prowess. Her early goal against Tunisia was a reminder of just how dangerous she still is.

Alongside her are players like Rinsola Babajide, a newcomer who marked her debut with a goal and an emotional tribute to late Liverpool star Diogo Jota. Babajide brings flair, pace, and creativity to the wing — exactly the spark Nigeria needs against tighter defensive setups.

The midfield engine is driven by Toni Payne, whose technical brilliance and vision continue to anchor the side, while Deborah Abiodun, one of the brightest young prospects, adds tenacity and energy.

In defense, stalwarts like Ashleigh Plumptre and Osinachi Ohale provide stability and experience, while Chiamaka Nnadozie, one of the best goalkeepers in Africa, offers security between the sticks.

Another standout performer is Esther Okoronkwo, who came off the bench against Tunisia to great effect, earning Woman of the Match honours. Her movement, physicality, and creative play have given Nigeria an added edge in the attacking third.

Despite their pedigree, Nigeria’s path to a 10th title is far from guaranteed. The landscape of African women’s football has changed dramatically in the last decade. Teams like South Africa, the defending champions from 2022, Morocco, who reached the final as hosts last time out, Cameroon, Zambia, and Botswana have made significant progress and are no longer intimidated by Nigeria’s history.

The 2022 WAFCON semifinal loss to Morocco on penalties served as a wake-up call. It showed that the rest of the continent has closed the gap — tactically, physically, and mentally. That defeat ended Nigeria’s dream of back-to-back titles and served as painful motivation heading into the 2025 edition.

Now grouped with Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria in Group B, the Falcons must stay focused. Their next match against Botswana could be a tricky test, especially given the Southern Africans’ athleticism and tactical organization. But Nigeria has the depth and experience to navigate the group — and beyond — if they remain united and disciplined.

The Super Falcons are not just elite athletes — they are symbols of empowerment and resilience. Many players on the team have overcome significant challenges to reach the top. From battling unequal pay and limited resources to pushing back against outdated stereotypes about women in sport, the Falcons have been at the forefront of advocacy as well as competition.

Players like Oshoala have launched foundations to support girls’ education and football, while others use their platforms to promote mental health, youth mentorship, and gender equality. Their story is one of perseverance — not just on the field, but in society.

Winning a 10th WAFCON title would be more than just a sporting achievement. It would be a historic moment that underscores Nigeria’s enduring excellence in women’s football. It would mark the culmination of decades of sacrifice, sweat, and struggle by players past and present.

Moreover, in an era where the global women’s game is growing rapidly, a 10th African crown would help position Nigeria not just as continental leaders, but as a nation ready to compete consistently on the world stage. The 2023 World Cup performance proved they can go toe-to-toe with elite teams. Now, a successful WAFCON campaign could serve as a springboard toward even greater goals — including winning global silverware.

With the group stage now underway, the Super Falcons know what is at stake. Every match matters. Every point counts. But for a team steeped in history, rich in talent, and driven by pride, the road to a 10th title is one they are ready to walk — together.

As “Mission X” continues, fans across Nigeria and the diaspora will watch with hope, pride, and belief. Because when the Super Falcons take the field, they represent not just a team — but a nation’s legacy of greatness.

And they are not done writing history. Not yet.