The Super Falcons of Nigeria are the most successful women’s football team in Africa, boasting 11 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) titles and consistent appearances on the global stage, including every FIFA Women’s World Cup since its inception in 1991.
Over the years, several players have etched their names in history as prolific goal scorers, contributing to the team’s dominance.
Below is an extensive look at the top 10 goal scorers in Super Falcons history, highlighting their careers and impact.
1. Perpetua Nkwocha (80 Goals)
Perpetua Nkwocha is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest female footballers. Known for her clinical finishing and leadership, she scored a record 80 goals for the Super Falcons. Nkwocha was pivotal in Nigeria’s dominance of African football, winning five WAFCON titles.
She set a tournament record by scoring nine goals in the 2004 edition, including four in the final against Cameroon. A four-time CAF African Women’s Footballer of the Year, she also represented Nigeria in four FIFA World Cups and three Olympic Games.
2. Asisat Oshoala (37 Goals)
Asisat Oshoala is a modern-day icon of Nigerian football. Known for her speed and technical ability, she has scored 37 goals for the Super Falcons and continues to be a key player.
Oshoala won the Golden Ball and Golden Boot at the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and has since excelled at club level, playing for FC Barcelona and winning multiple CAF African Women’s Player of the Year awards. She has been instrumental in recent WAFCON campaigns and World Cup appearances.
3. Desire Oparanozie (22 Goals)
Desire Oparanozie is celebrated for her strength and powerful shots. With 22 goals to her name, she was a crucial part of Nigeria’s WAFCON victories in 2014, 2016, and 2018. Oparanozie also captained the team during her career and played key roles in World Cup campaigns.
4. Stella Mbachu (20 Goals)
Stella Mbachu was a versatile forward who scored 20 goals for Nigeria during her illustrious career. Known for her pace and creativity, she was instrumental in several WAFCON triumphs and represented the Super Falcons at multiple World Cups.
5. Cynthia Uwak (18 Goals)
Cynthia Uwak was known for her agility and goal-scoring prowess, netting 18 times for Nigeria. She played a vital role in Nigeria’s WAFCON successes during her career and was twice named CAF African Women’s Footballer of the Year[3][4].
6. Florence Omagbemi (17 Goals)
Florence Omagbemi was not only a prolific midfielder but also a leader who captained Nigeria to multiple WAFCON titles. She scored 17 goals during her career and later transitioned into coaching, leading the Super Falcons to WAFCON victory as head coach in 2016.
7. Kikelomo Ajayi (16 Goals)
Kikelomo Ajayi was a consistent performer for Nigeria, scoring 16 goals during her international career. Her contributions helped solidify Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football during her era.
8. Maureen Mmadu (15 Goals)
Maureen Mmadu is celebrated as one of Nigeria’s most versatile players, contributing both defensively and offensively with 15 goals to her name. She remains an influential figure in Nigerian women’s football history.
9. Mercy Akide-Udoh (14 Goals)
Mercy Akide-Udoh was one of the first African women to play professional football abroad, paving the way for others. With 14 international goals, she played a key role in Nigeria’s success at WAFCON and represented the country at multiple World Cups.
10. Onome Ebi (13 Goals)
Onome Ebi is primarily known as a defender but has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s attack with 13 goals. A veteran of six FIFA World Cups, Ebi’s longevity and leadership have been invaluable to the team.
The achievements of these players highlight not just their individual brilliance but also their collective contribution to making the Super Falcons a dominant force in African football. From Perpetua Nkwocha’s historic records to Asisat Oshoala’s modern-day heroics, these athletes have inspired generations while cementing Nigeria’s legacy on both continental and global stages.
