Oshoala, Ajibade strike as Falcons edge Queens in WAFCON warm-up
⚽ Oshoala, Ajibade Strike as Falcons Edge Queens in WAFCON Warm-Up
🔍 Introduction
Nigeria’s Super Falcons are heating up ahead of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), and their recent warm-up match was a solid show of intent. Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade led the charge, helping the Falcons edge past the Queens with a 2-1 victory that underlines their preparation level and attacking firepower.
Purpose of the Match
Warm-up friendlies like this are not just for show — they help the coaching staff assess players, test formations, and fine-tune strategy before heading into the continental tournament.
Key Players to Watch
Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade were clearly in the spotlight — and they didn’t disappoint. Their goals proved decisive in clinching the win for Nigeria.
📅 Match Overview
Date and Location
The match was played on June 23, 2025, at a packed practice venue in Abidjan, with both teams eager to shake off the rust and get competitive ahead of the tournament.
Opponent Analysis – Queens’ Profile
The Queens, a top women’s national side from West Africa, are known for their high pressing and aggressive midfield. They’ve qualified for the past three WAFCON editions and are no pushovers.
🔥 First Half Highlights
Dominance by Super Falcons
From kickoff, Nigeria controlled the tempo. With midfielders dictating the pace and wingbacks pushing high, the Falcons created early chances.
Oshoala’s Goal and Its Build-Up
In the 27th minute, a through ball from Toni Payne found Oshoala between the lines. She took one touch and fired low past the goalkeeper — clinical as ever.
⚡ Second Half Developments
Queens’ Brief Comeback Attempt
The Queens weren’t done. A defensive slip allowed them to equalize just minutes into the second half. Their goal shocked the Falcons into a higher gear.
Ajibade’s Decisive Strike
Rasheedat Ajibade restored Nigeria’s lead in the 73rd minute with a powerful left-footed finish after beating two defenders. The celebration? Pure passion.
📊 Tactical Analysis
Falcons’ Formation and Style
Coach Randy Waldrum opted for a 4-3-3 system, with a fluid front three and overlapping fullbacks. Possession-based play and vertical passing stood out.
Coaching Decisions That Paid Off
Substitutions were timely, and the decision to push Ajibade into a more central role in the second half added a new dimension to the attack.
🌟 Star Performers
Asisat Oshoala’s Sharpness
Oshoala showed why she remains one of Africa’s most feared strikers — precise movement, hunger for goals, and great link-up play.
Rasheedat Ajibade’s Versatility
From wing to midfield, Ajibade was everywhere. Her energy and eye for goal made her a constant threat to the opposition.
🎙️ Reactions Post-Match
Coach Randy Waldrum’s Comments
“We saw what we needed to see. A few things to fix, but overall, the performance was encouraging,” said Waldrum post-match.
Player Sentiments and Morale
Ajibade expressed confidence in the team’s direction. “We’re getting sharper. Everyone’s hungry to make an impact,” she said with a smile.
📆 Preparations for WAFCON 2025
Remaining Fixtures
The Falcons will play two more friendlies — one against Morocco and another against South Africa — before their opening WAFCON match.
Squad Fitness and Expectations
Fitness levels are improving, with no serious injuries reported. Expectations? Nothing less than bringing the trophy home.
💥 Why This Win Matters
Boosting Team Confidence
Winning against quality opposition boosts morale. The team now believes they can compete with the best.
Tactical Readiness for Tournament Pressure
Testing strategies now helps the team stay ahead. It’s like warming up before a big fight — you don’t skip it.
📌 Key Takeaways From the Falcons vs Queens Clash
Better Chemistry in the Final Third
One of the clear improvements from past performances was how well the Falcons linked up in attack. Oshoala, Ajibade, and Payne seem to be developing a telepathic connection. Short passes, quick switches, and decisive runs were all in full display — a promising sign for Nigeria’s WAFCON ambitions.
Midfield Stability
Deborah Abiodun and Christy Ucheibe held things down in midfield with intelligent ball distribution and timely tackles. Their composure under pressure allowed the forwards to stay high up the pitch, keeping the Queens’ defense constantly on alert.
Room for Defensive Improvement
While the attack impressed, the defense had some shaky moments — especially in the second half. Miscommunication and a lack of tracking led to the equalizer. Coach Waldrum will no doubt address this before the next warm-up game.
👥 Depth and Competition in the Squad
Young Players Getting Minutes
Several U-20 graduates were handed minutes in the match, including midfielder Jumoke Alani and winger Chinyere Igboamalu. Their confidence on the ball and speed in transition brought energy to the second half — and more importantly, gives the coaching crew options.
Increased Competition for Starting Spots
With the return of experienced players and the rise of fresh talent, there’s stiff competition for starting shirts. This internal rivalry is healthy — it keeps everyone sharp and gives the technical crew a good headache when choosing lineups.
💬 What Fans Are Saying
Social Media Buzz
After the game, Nigerian football Twitter lit up with praise for Ajibade’s performance, calling her the “midfield general” and “Falcons’ fire starter.” Fans also applauded the team’s grit in bouncing back after conceding.
@NaijaFootyGirl: “Ajibade is a baller! That goal was pure magic 🔥 #SuperFalcons”
@GreenEaglesFan: “Our Queens are ready! Oshoala is in beast mode and it’s just a warm-up!”
Support Building Ahead of WAFCON
The friendly result has boosted morale across the country. Fan groups are already planning trips to Ivory Coast, with supporters optimistic about a deep tournament run.
🏆 Super Falcons’ WAFCON Legacy
History of Dominance
Nigeria’s Super Falcons are the most successful team in WAFCON history, boasting 11 titles since the competition began. But the last few editions have seen rising challengers like South Africa and Cameroon.
Pressure to Maintain Legacy
This year, the pressure is real. With more African teams improving, the Falcons must adapt and innovate. The blend of youth and experience in the current squad may just be the winning formula.
📣 Final Thoughts: Eyes on the Prize
This was more than a warm-up game — it was a signal. The Super Falcons are not just participating in WAFCON 2025; they’re coming for the crown. With top talents like Asisat Oshoala leading the line, and powerhouses like Rasheedat Ajibade orchestrating play, Nigeria is in prime shape to reclaim its continental dominance.
Fans, buckle up. This could be the tournament where we witness the Falcons soar higher than ever before.
🎯 Bonus: What to Watch in the Next Friendly
- Set-piece defense: Can they tighten up against aerial threats?
- Goalkeeper consistency: Who will be the undisputed No. 1?
- Substitute impact: Which bench players make a claim to start?
🔚 Conclusion and What’s Next
This warm-up win was more than just a friendly — it was a statement. The Super Falcons are locked in, ready, and sharpening their claws for WAFCON 2025. With Oshoala and Ajibade in top form, Nigeria has every reason to dream big.
❓ FAQs
1. When does WAFCON 2025 start?
The tournament kicks off in July 2025 across selected venues in Ivory Coast.
2. Who are the Falcons’ group stage opponents?
Nigeria will face Cameroon, Tunisia, and Zambia in Group B.
3. Is Asisat Oshoala fully fit for the tournament?
Yes! She has recovered from her minor knock earlier in the year and looked sharp in the friendly.
4. Will these friendlies affect player selection?
Absolutely. Performances in these matches influence the final 23-woman squad list.
5. Where can I watch WAFCON 2025 matches live?
The matches will be broadcast on SuperSport, NTA, and streamed live on CAF’s YouTube channel.