We’ve not received $100,000 promised by Tinubu – Ajibade

Super Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, has disclosed that the team is yet to receive the $100,000 reward and other incentives promised by the Federal Government after winning the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Speaking in an interview with Chude Jideonwo, Ajibade expressed disappointment over the delay in fulfilling the pledges made by President Bola Tinubu.

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When asked if the money had been paid, she responded, “We have not received our money, but hopefully, it will be paid. All the promises, we have not received anything.”

Ajibade captained the Super Falcons to a historic victory in Morocco, securing their record-extending WAFCON title. Following the triumph, President Tinubu honoured the players and technical crew with national awards of Officer of the Order of Niger (OON), as well as the promise of $100,000 and a three-bedroom apartment for each team member.

Receiving the squad at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu hailed their resilience, determination, and courage, describing their win as a landmark achievement for Nigeria.

BREAKING: Tinubu hosts Super Falcons after historic WAFCON win

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently hosting the Super Falcons at the State House in Abuja, following their stunning victory in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final in Rabat, Morocco.

The Nigerian team, captained by Rasheedat Ajibade and led by head coach Justin Madugu, arrived at the Presidential Villa at exactly 4:35 p.m. on Monday to a hero’s welcome.

At the forecourt of the State House, the Falcons were personally received by President Tinubu, who congratulated the squad for clinching Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title, a feat that reaffirms their status as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.

Read Also: WAFCON: Tinubu to host Super Falcons in Abuja on Monday

The warm reception comes just as the President had promised during a post-match video call on Sunday.

“I am very, very proud of you. The entire nation is proud of you. You have lifted our spirits. You are a pride to your generation, and we are all very happy,” President Tinubu said during the call.

“You will be celebrated, and I look forward to receiving the trophy in Abuja.”

The Super Falcons defeated host nation Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling final that has been hailed as one of the most exciting matches in WAFCON history.

More details to follow…

Michelle Alozie’s late goal sends Super Falcons to WAFCON final

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured their spot in the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a dramatic 2-1 semifinal victory over defending champions South Africa, with Michelle Alozie netting a stunning stoppage-time winner on Tuesday night.

The thrilling encounter at the Stade Mohammed V saw the Falcons dominate early proceedings, nearly taking the lead after a misjudged free kick from Alozie forced a fumble from South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.

Nigeria’s pressure paid off just before halftime. A penalty was awarded after Bambanani Mbane handled the ball in the box while attempting to stop Folashade Ijamilusi. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade confidently stepped up and buried the spot-kick to give Nigeria a 1–0 lead going into the break.

South Africa responded strongly in the second half. In the 60th minute, Linda Motlhalo drew Banyana Banyana level from the penalty spot after Osinachi Ohale brought down Hildah Magaia inside the area. It marked the first goal Nigeria conceded in the tournament and briefly shifted momentum in the South Africans’ favor.

Chances continued to flow at both ends. Jennifer Echegini, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo threatened for Nigeria, while South Africa’s Jermaine Seoposenwe and substitute Noxolo Cesane kept the Nigerian defense on edge. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie produced key saves, supported by strong defending from Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre.

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A moment of concern came in the 84th minute when Gabriela Salgado suffered a serious leg injury following a set-piece challenge. The distressing scene drew emotional reactions from her teammates and fans alike, with even Nigerian supporters joining in chants of solidarity as she was stretchered off.

With extra time looming, the Super Falcons refused to settle. In the 94th minute, Michelle Alozie delivered a cross from deep into the South African box. Although Deborah Abiodun failed to get a clean touch, her presence disrupted the defense. Fikile Magama couldn’t clear the ball off the line, and it trickled in to hand Nigeria a dramatic last-gasp victory.

The win propels Nigeria into the WAFCON final as they aim to claim a record-extending 10th continental title, reasserting their status as the dominant force in African women’s football after a disappointing fourth-place finish in 2022.

South Africa, who came into the tournament as reigning champions, exit in heartbreak but with pride, though concern remains over Salgado’s injury.

The Super Falcons will now look to crown their impressive run with the trophy as they await their final opponents.