Nigeria’s Super Falcons have arrived in Morocco for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) determined to defend the title they won last year and reinforce their dominance in African women’s football.
The nine-time champions secured a record-extending 10th continental title in Morocco in 2025 through their “Mission X” campaign, defeating the host nation 3-2 in the final. They now face the task of retaining the trophy for the first time since completing a hat-trick of titles in 2018.
Head coach Justin Madugu acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that every team will be eager to dethrone the reigning champions.
“Now that we are champions, every other team will want to bring us down. It won’t be easy, but we are aware of the challenge and we will be fully prepared,” Madugu said.
Nigeria begin their Group C campaign against tournament debutants Malawi on Tuesday before taking on Zambia and Egypt in the remaining group fixtures.
Assistant coach Ann Chiejine, a four-time WAFCON winner as a player, said the team is focused on raising its performance levels, stressing that every opponent sees Nigeria as the team to beat.
The Super Falcons’ squad blends experience with youth, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, last year’s Player of the Tournament, reigning African Goalkeeper of the Year Chiamaka Nnadozie, and six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala.
Madugu has also included promising young talents, among them Sweden-based striker Joy Omewa, who watched Nigeria’s title-winning campaign from afar and believes this year’s tournament will be even more competitive and exciting.
