Oshoala Sends Powerful Message on Kidnapped Pupils After Scoring in Super Falcons’ Victory Over Senegal

Super Falcons forward Asisat Oshoala used her goal celebration to spotlight the plight of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Nigeria following the national team’s 2-1 victory over Senegal in an international friendly match on Friday.

The six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year delivered a heartfelt message moments after opening the scoring for Nigeria from the penalty spot during the encounter at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne, Ogun State.

After calmly converting her spot-kick in the 32nd minute, Oshoala raised her hand to reveal an inscription written on her wrist tape that read: “Save the teachers. Bring back our children.”

The gesture immediately drew attention to the recent wave of school abductions that has sparked outrage across the country. The message was widely interpreted as a call for urgent action to secure the release of pupils and teachers who were kidnapped during coordinated attacks on schools in Oyo State and other parts of Nigeria.

Football Star Joins Calls for Safe Return of Victims

Oshoala’s statement came at a time when concerns over insecurity and school abductions continue to dominate national discourse.

By using one of the biggest platforms in African women’s football, the former Barcelona Femeni star joined growing calls from citizens, activists, and public figures demanding the safe return of those still being held captive by their abductors.

Her emotional appeal resonated with fans inside the stadium and across social media, where many praised the striker for using her influence to advocate for vulnerable victims and their families.

Super Falcons Continue WAFCON Preparations in Style

Beyond the powerful message, the Super Falcons delivered a strong performance as they continued preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) scheduled to take place in Morocco.

Nigeria dominated large periods of the match and showcased their experience against a determined Senegalese side.

Oshoala’s penalty gave the hosts a deserved lead before Everton midfielder Toni Payne doubled Nigeria’s advantage shortly before halftime with a well-taken finish.

Although Senegal’s Sokhna Pene pulled one back late in the game to create a tense ending, the nine-time African champions held on to secure a valuable victory.

Madugu Tests Squad Ahead of Continental Showpiece

Head coach Justine Madugu used the friendly encounter to assess the readiness of several players ahead of the continental tournament.

One of the highlights of the match was the senior international debut of young Portsmouth goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor, who was handed a starting role between the posts.

Nigeria’s attack featured an experienced frontline led by Oshoala, alongside Francisca Ordega and Folashade Ijamilusi, while captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Toni Payne, and Christy Ucheibe controlled proceedings in midfield.

Falcons Eye Record-Extending 11th African Title

The Super Falcons are preparing for another title challenge at the 2026 WAFCON, which will be held in Morocco from July 25 to August 16.

Nigeria, the most successful team in the competition’s history, will be aiming to win an unprecedented 11th continental crown.

Madugu’s side has been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Malawi, and Zambia, while Senegal will compete in Group A against hosts Morocco, Algeria, and Kenya.

With preparations gathering momentum, Oshoala’s performance and her emotional appeal ensured that Friday’s friendly was remembered not only for the result on the pitch but also for the important message delivered off it.