The Super Falcons of Nigeria delivered a commanding 2-0 victory over the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon on June 3, 2025, at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State. As part of their final preparations for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), this friendly was anything but casual—serving as both a statement of intent and a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s continental pedigree.
Ajibade Leads from the Front
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade was the difference-maker on the day, showcasing her composure, grit, and clinical edge. She opened the scoring in the 26th minute with a well-taken penalty, having been brought down in the box herself. Her second—arriving just before the halftime whistle in the 43rd or 44th minute—was the product of fluid attacking interplay, capped off with a precise assist from Omorinsola Babajide.
Ajibade’s brace wasn’t just decisive—it was symbolic. A captain stepping up, literally and figuratively, to ignite “Mission X”: Nigeria’s campaign to clinch a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. Her performance was widely praised as “fantastic,” not only for the goals but for the authority and energy she brought to a team in transition.
Defensive Assurance and Tactical Solidity
While Nigeria’s attacking moments drew the headlines, it was a total team performance marked by structure and resilience. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie’s stoppage-time save in the 90+2’ minute was a crucial reminder of the team’s defensive depth. Despite Cameroon enjoying 54% of the possession and earning six corners to Nigeria’s three, the Falcons rarely looked rattled.
Even in a match where they saw less of the ball, Nigeria’s pressing, shape, and transition game were sharp. The foul count (Nigeria 13, Cameroon 16) highlighted a competitive edge, but never one that tipped into recklessness. It was, simply put, a dominant display with intent behind every pass, tackle, and finish.
Ordega Returns: Experience Meets Youth
One of the major storylines heading into the match was the return of Francisca Ordega. Absent since the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the veteran forward was recalled by Coach Justin Madugu, who emphasized the importance of her experience as a four-time WAFCON winner. Her inclusion wasn’t about sentiment—it was strategic.
As Nigeria looks to blood a new generation of home-based talents and expose them to the rigors of international football, Ordega represents a bridge: someone who has been through the fire and come out forged. Her role now includes mentorship, stability, and the occasional flash of brilliance that only seasoned players can summon.
The Road to Morocco: “Mission X” Gains Traction
This win takes Nigeria’s tally to 15 victories in 21 meetings with Cameroon, underscoring a long-standing dominance. But the bigger picture lies ahead. With the 2024 WAFCON kicking off in Morocco from July 5–26, the Super Falcons are tuning up for what they hope will be a historic tournament.
Grouped with Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana in Group B, the Super Falcons will face early tests, but performances like this one suggest they’re up for it. The Nigerian Football Federation’s deliberate blend of experience and youth, along with solid tactical preparation, shows that the team is not just dreaming of glory—they’re engineering it.
Ajibade’s leadership, Ordega’s resurgence, and a squad that plays with controlled aggression all point toward a side peaking at the right time. If this friendly is any indication, “Mission X” isn’t just marketing spin—it’s a real, tangible pursuit of African football history.
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