Casablanca, Morocco – July 7, 2025 — Nine-time champions Nigeria will kick off their quest for a historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title today as they face Tunisia in a crucial Group B opener at the Stade Larbi Zaouli, Casablanca. Dubbed “Mission X,” Nigeria’s campaign aims to reclaim continental dominance following their 2022 semi-final exit to hosts Morocco. The match marks just the second-ever WAFCON meeting between Nigeria and Tunisia—their previous clash ending goalless at the 2008 tournament in Equatorial Guinea. Ahead of the showdown, Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu warned against complacency, stressing the rising standard of women’s football across Africa. “They are not minnows any longer,” Madugu said. “We are not taking anyone for granted. No games will be easy games.” Despite Nigeria’s rich pedigree in African women’s football—including a record nine titles and an unbeaten record against North African teams in open play—Madugu says his team is treating each group opponent with “seriousness and respect.” Tunisia, who reached the quarter-finals in 2022, enter as underdogs but will draw confidence from the firepower of Sabrine Ellouzi, who netted seven goals during qualifiers. Coach Kamel Saada admitted the group is tough but believes discipline and focus could give his side a fighting chance. “Everyone knows the quality of Nigeria,” Saada told SUNSPORTS ONLINE. “We’ll need to be at our best.” Nigeria, meanwhile, arrive in Morocco on the back of solid form, with recent wins over Algeria, Cameroon, and Ghana. Their squad is anchored by top-ranked African goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who was recently named Africa’s Best Shot-Stopper for the second year running. Group B also features Algeria and Botswana, both of whom will face Nigeria later in the group stage. A win today will boost the Falcons’ momentum and strengthen their chances of finishing top of the group. The high-stakes encounter kicks off what promises to be a dramatic and competitive WAFCON campaign, as Nigeria look to etch their name in history with a record-extending 10th title.
WAFCON 2024: Nigeria Begin ‘Mission X’ Against Tunisia in Group B Opener
