Super Falcons’ Plumptre Upbeat for WAFCON 2025 Semi-Finals
Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s prospects for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2025 semi-finals following a dominant 5-0 victory over Zambia on July 18, 2025, at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
The centre-back, named in the CAF Team of the Group Stage, praised the defensive contributions of Osinachi Ohale and Oluwatosin Demehin, who scored in the quarter-final triumph. “I was really happy for Osi and Tosin, maybe just because they are centre-backs… they can go up there, get the goals, and they’re both really good leaders,” Plumptre said.
Plumptre highlighted the significance of the win against a Zambia side considered pre-tournament favorites, noting, “I think a lot of people counted us out, almost like we were underdogs at times.
It was nice to come out with a statement win against Zambia, and that will give us a lot of confidence going into the next game.” The Super Falcons neutralized Zambia’s star forwards, Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, maintaining a perfect defensive record with no goals conceded in the tournament.
Ohale scored in the second minute via Esther Okoronkwo’s free-kick, while Demehin headed in the fourth goal in the 68th minute.
Nigeria’s attacking rhythm, sluggish in the group stage, clicked with goals from Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Folashade Ijamilusi, alongside the defensive duo’s contributions.
The nine-time champions now prepare for their semi-final clash on July 22, 2025, against either South Africa or Senegal, aiming for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. Plumptre’s leadership and composure, lauded by coach Justin Madugu, anchor a squad determined to reclaim the crown last won in 2018.
