Nigeria’s Super Falcons have touched down in Casablanca ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as preparations intensify for their opening fixture against Tunisia, Footynaija.com reports.
The 22-player squad and technical team departed from Lisbon, Portugal, and are expected to arrive in Morocco’s economic capital on Wednesday night. China-based forward Folashade Ijamilusi and US-based superstar Asisat Oshoala had earlier joined up with the team directly in Casablanca.
The Super Falcons’ journey to North Africa follows a spirited goalless draw against Portugal in a friendly match played on Monday evening at Estádio José Gomes in Lisbon.
Standout performances from goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Shukurat Oladipo and veteran forward Francisca Ordega earned plaudits as Nigeria showed resilience against their European hosts.
The nine-time African champions will begin their WAFCON campaign on Sunday, 6th July against Tunisia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. Group stage encounters against Botswana and Algeria will follow.
Since the tournament’s inception as the African Women’s Championship in 1998, Nigeria have maintained an unbroken record of semi-final appearances. They clinched the title in 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016 and 2018. Even in editions where they did not lift the trophy — 2008, 2012 and 2022 — the Falcons still reached the last four.
With history on their side and form sharpening, the Super Falcons will be eyeing a 10th continental crown in Morocco.