Nigeria’s Super Falcons stars Ashleigh Plumptre and Rasheedat Ajibade have earned spots in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Group Stage Best XI, as compiled by the tournament’s Technical Study Group (TSG).
Plumptre stood out in Nigeria’s backline, showcasing composure, tactical awareness, and defensive consistency from the left side of defence.
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She joins South Africa’s Bambanani Mbane and Fikile Magama, along with Zambia’s Lushomo Mweemba, in the defensive quartet.
Rasheedat Ajibade, meanwhile, delivered a string of dynamic performances in midfield, linking play between the lines with technical brilliance and relentless drive. Her standout display came in Nigeria’s second group match against Botswana, where she was named Woman of the Match.
Ajibade features in a midfield trio alongside Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak and South Africa’s experienced playmaker Refiloe Jane.
The attacking trio includes Zambia’s lethal pair, Racheal Kundananji and Barbra Banda, as well as Senegal’s Nguenar Ndiaye—each of whom played key roles in their nations’ group-stage success.
South Africa’s Desiree Ellis, head coach of the Banyana Banyana, was also recognised for her tactical acumen and leadership, earning the honour of Best Coach of the Group Stage.
The Super Falcons’ double representation in the elite lineup reflects Nigeria’s strong showing in the tournament’s opening round, underlining their status as perennial contenders on the African stage.
 Group Stage Best XI, as compiled by the tournament’s Technical Study Group (TSG).){kind=link}