Super Falcons prepare for WAFCON 2026
The Super Falcons of Nigeria are preparing for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie stating the team will approach the tournament one match at a time. The defending champions are aiming for a record-extending 11th continental title and qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The tournament, expanded to 16 teams, is scheduled to run from July 26 to August 16.
Nnadozie, a three-time African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, highlighted the team’s determination to avoid complacency. She emphasised that the team is focused on both securing the WAFCON trophy and a spot in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The Paris FC goalkeeper welcomed the tournament’s expansion, noting it would increase competitiveness but would not distract the Super Falcons from their objectives.
Nigeria has been drawn into Group C, where they will face Egypt, Zambia, and tournament debutants Malawi. Nnadozie dismissed any notion that some groups are tougher than others, asserting that the gap between established African teams and emerging ones has narrowed significantly. She believes that every team deserves respect and that there will be surprises in the tournament.
Team leadership and qualification path
The Super Falcons, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade and head coach Justine Madugu, enter the competition as favourites. Nigeria holds the record for the most successful team in the tournament’s history, with 10 continental titles. The team reclaimed the trophy in 2024.
Nigeria secured their place in the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 by defeating Benin 3-1 on aggregate in the second round of qualifying. After receiving a bye in the opening round, the Super Falcons achieved a 2-0 away victory in Cotonou. They completed their qualification by drawing 1-1 in the second leg in Abeokuta, with Ashleigh Plumptre scoring for Nigeria before Yasmine Djibril equalised for Benin.
Coach Justine Madugu has previously served in various technical roles within the national team setup. His leadership, knowledge of the squad, and focus on tactical balance have contributed to a competitive environment within the team.
Key players and tournament outlook
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, named Player of the Tournament at the 2024 edition, is expected to be a central figure for Nigeria. She is recognised for her pace, creativity, and leadership, consistently performing in important matches. The squad also includes other notable players such as Chiamaka Nnadozie, Asisat Oshoala, Esther Okoronkwo, Michelle Alozie, and Jennifer Echegini.
Nigeria remains the highest-ranked women’s national team in Africa and will aim to reinforce their dominance on the continent. The team possesses experience, squad depth, and a winning mentality, with a world-class goalkeeper, an experienced defence, a dynamic midfield, and a strong attack.
The Super Falcons have qualified for every edition of the tournament since its official launch in 1998. The team will be chasing an 11th WAFCON title in Morocco, further extending their record as the competition’s most successful nation.
The 14th Women Africa Cup of Nations will be played in Morocco from July 26 to August 16, 2026.
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Source: businessday.ng
