Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has had an eventful start to the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, delivering a standout performance in Nigeria's opening 3-0 victory over Tunisia on Monday, July 7th. Following the match, the defender also issued a public warning regarding an online impersonation scam.
Plumptre was instrumental in the Super Falcons' dominant tournament opener, contributing significantly to both defence and attack, which included helping to secure a clean sheet. Speaking after the game, she expressed her satisfaction with the team's performance, calling it a "nice way to start the tournament" despite some initial nerves. "We'll take this as a good stepping stone into the next game," she added, while also urging for continued support from Nigerian fans as the team chases a tenth WAFCON title.
Off the pitch, Plumptre raised an alarm about a fraudulent Facebook account impersonating her and reportedly promising financial rewards to unsuspecting individuals. She clarified that she does not use Facebook and that any account in her name on the platform is fake.
The 27-year-old, who plays her club football for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, has enjoyed a significant year. In February 2025, she extended her contract with the club until 2027. That same month, she was named a Global Ambassador for Mission 89, an organization dedicated to combating sports trafficking. Adding to her accomplishments, Plumptre also recently completed her UEFA B Coaching Licence in May.
After missing the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifiers due to an injury, Plumptre's return to form is a welcome boost for the Super Falcons as they continue their WAFCON campaign. The team is set to face Botswana in their next group stage match.
