The match remained deadlocked until the 89th minute, when Chinwendu Ihezuo finally broke through, heading home a pinpoint cross from Esther Okoronkwo to seal Nigeria’s quarter-final qualification. But it was Ajibade’s relentless energy, crisp passing, and leadership that set the tone throughout the contest.
At 26, the former Atlético Madrid forward has solidified her status as a key figure in the Super Falcons—both on and off the pitch—often referred to affectionately as “Rash” .
With this late victory, Nigeria became the first team to punch their ticket to the quarter-finals, topping Group B with six points. Ajibade’s influence, especially in the midfield, highlighted her vital role in guiding the team toward their historic tenth WAFCON title.