Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has affirmed that the team is ready to give their best in the upcoming 2024 WAFCON tournament in Morocco, despite recent distractions facing the squad, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Ajibade scored twice as the Falcons secured a 2-0 victory over Cameroon in a friendly match held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta on Tuesday.
This match marked the team’s first regrouping since November 2024, following their absence from two international windows this year.
The last time the 11-time African champions were active during an international break was in November 2024, when they suffered a 2-1 defeat to France in a high-profile friendly. Prior to that, they played a two-legged friendly series against Algeria in Lagos and Ikenne in October 2024.
With about a month remaining before WAFCON kicks off, the Nigeria Football Federation had planned a two-legged friendly against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon, but logistical challenges reduced it to a single game.
Reflecting on the team’s performance and their goal of winning a record 10th WAFCON title next month, Ajibade said, “The mood right now is positive. Even though there are ongoing distractions, we fully understand the responsibilities ahead.
“As players, it’s a great honour to represent our nation. We are optimistic, excited, and ready for the tournament. Of course, we will give our best as always.”
The 2024 WAFCON is scheduled to take place from July 5 to 26 in Morocco.
Nigeria will compete in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana.
This tournament also marks an important milestone in Ajibade’s career, as she is set to join a new club ahead of next season.
The striker recently bid farewell to Atletico Women after four years, during which she made 139 appearances and scored 40 goals.
Her tenure at Atletico was highlighted by two major trophies: the 2021 Spanish Super Cup and the 2023 Copa de la Reina, while she established herself as a key player in the team.
