CAN 2025 (W): Nigeria takes out Tunisia, Senegal slaughters DRC

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The Nigeria Super Falcons kicked off their journey in the 2025 Women’s African Nations Cup with a resounding 3-0 victory over Tunisia on Sunday in Casablanca.

From the outset, Justine Madugu’s players imposed their pace. The inevitable Asisat Oshoala opened the scoring with a header in the 4th minute, after a precise cross from Omorinsola Babajide.

Nigeria then controlled the debates, controlling the match’s tempo without ever really worrying. The goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, who was rarely solicited, had a relatively peaceful evening.

In the 40th minute, Deborah Abiodun nearly scored a second goal after beautifully dribbling through the Tunisian defence, but her attempt was stopped by the goalkeeper. They didn’t wait long to try again. Just before the break, Babajide turned shooter, scoring the second goal with a well-placed strike.

Ashleigh Plumptre thought she had added to the score moments later, but her achievement was canceled due to a prior foul.

After half-time, the Nigerian coach made three substitutions: Chiwendu Ihezuo, Christy Ucheibe and Esther Okoronkwo replaced Oshoala, Abiodun and Babajide. Nigeria continued to dominate, creating numerous clear chances through Plumptre and Osinachi Ohale.

The reward finally arrived in the 84th minute, with substitute Chiwendu Ihezuo sealing the victory with a coolly taken third goal.

Bolstered by this inaugural success, the Nigerian team — nine-time African champions — will face Botswana on Wednesday in their second group match.

Relentless Senegal

On their part, Senegal decimated DRC in their first match of this tournament. The Teranga Lionesses, who were too strong for the Congolese, emerged victorious with an unequivocal 4-0 score. With this win, the Senegalese take the lead in Group A, ahead of Zambia and Morocco, who drew their match.