Ajibade and Plumptre named among WAFCON’s Group Stage Best XI
In a tournament brimming with talent, two Super Falcons stars have soared above the rest — Rasheedat Ajibade and Ashleigh Plumptre — earning their place in the CAF Women’s AFCON 2024 Group Stage Best XI.
Their performances helped Nigeria top Group B.
Captain, creator, and catalyst — Ajibade was everywhere. She played every minute of Nigeria’s three group matches, delivering two goals and three assists, and was named Woman of the Match against Botswana.
Her ability to drive forward, link play, and dictate tempo made her one of the most influential midfielders of the group stage.
‘Ajibade’s technical finesse and driving runs were pivotal to Nigeria’s attacking flow,’ noted CAF’s Technical Study Group.
On the left side of defense, Plumptre was a fortress. Her composure, intelligent positioning, and clean tackles helped Nigeria keep two clean sheets. Against Tunisia, she not only shut down attacks but also contributed to the build-up for Nigeria’s third goal.
CAF Best XI (4-3-3 Formation)
Position Player Country
Goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi Algeria
Left Back Ashleigh Plumptre Nigeria
Center Back Bambanani Mbane South Africa
Center Back Lushomo Mweemba Zambia
Right Back Fikile Magama South Africa
Midfield Rasheedat Ajibade Nigeria
Midfield Ghizlane Chebbak Morocco
Midfield Refiloe Jane South Africa
Left Wing Racheal Kundananji Zambia
Striker Barbra Banda Zambia
Right Wing Nguenar Ndiaye Senegal
With three Zambian players also named in the Best XI, the upcoming quarterfinal between Nigeria and Zambia is more than a match — it’s a battle of elite talent. Ajibade and Plumptre will be key to Nigeria’s hopes of advancing and reclaiming continental glory.
