Super Falcons Launch ‘Mission X’ Against Tunisia at WAFCON 2024 Opener
Casablanca, Morocco | July 6, 2025 – IDNN Sports Desk
The Super Falcons of Nigeria begin their campaign for a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title today as they face Tunisia in a Group B showdown at the Stade Larbi Zaouli, Casablanca. The clash is the Falcons’ opening fixture in what has been dubbed ‘Mission X’—a determined push to reclaim continental supremacy after losing the crown to South Africa in 2022.
Respect, Not Complacency — Madugu Sends Early Warning
Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has warned his players to brace for a tough encounter, insisting that the era of underrating African opposition is over.
“They are not minnows any longer. You can’t consider anybody a weak team,” Madugu told reporters in Casablanca on Saturday.
“All these teams qualified on merit. We must approach every game with full seriousness and total respect.”
Madugu’s comments signal a strategic recalibration, as Nigeria looks to avoid the pitfalls of complacency despite its rich WAFCON pedigree.
Nigeria’s Continental Dominance Tested
This will be only the second-ever meeting between Nigeria and Tunisia at a WAFCON final tournament. Their last encounter was a 0-0 draw at the 2008 edition in Equatorial Guinea, and Nigeria has historically dominated North African teams, remaining unbeaten in open play with four wins and two draws.
Yet, Tunisia arrives in Morocco with quiet confidence and a standout forward in Sabrine Ellouzi, who netted seven goals in qualifying. The Carthage Eagles’ head coach Kamel Saada admitted the challenge ahead, especially with a powerhouse like Nigeria in the same group.
“We know the quality of Nigeria. But we are here to play our best football and make a statement,” Saada told CAF Online.
Falcons’ Form and Firepower
Nigeria’s squad is stacked with experience and talent. Anchoring the team is goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, recently named Africa’s best shot-stopper for the second consecutive year. The Super Falcons have won three of their last five matches, defeating Algeria, Cameroon, and Ghana en route to this tournament.
They will also rely on key offensive talents and the stability of a core group familiar with the intensity of WAFCON football.
Group B also includes Algeria and Botswana, making today’s fixture a crucial tone-setter.
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Tunisian Threat and Tournament Stakes
While Tunisia enters the competition as underdogs, their qualification run—scoring 18 goals across two rounds—signals intent. Alongside Ellouzi, captain Mariem Houij adds experience and goal-scoring instincts.
A result against Nigeria could radically shift the group’s dynamic, and both teams are well aware that a positive start is vital for knockout qualification.
Kick-off Details and Broadcast Info
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Match: Nigeria vs Tunisia
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Date: Sunday, July 6, 2025
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Time: 16:00 GMT (5:00 PM WAT)
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Venue: Stade Larbi Zaouli, Casablanca
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Broadcast: CAF TV, IDNN.com.ng LIVE updates
IDNN VERDICT:
‘Mission X’ is underway, but history alone won’t secure victory. Nigeria must earn it—starting with Tunisia. The battle begins now.
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