Can Anyone Challenge the Super Falcons’ Dominance?
With just weeks until the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) commences in Morocco, Nigeria’s Super Falcons, the defending champions, are on a mission to reclaim their title. As Africa’s most successful women’s national team, they seek to secure an unprecedented 11th continental title, following their memorable victory last year.
The Super Falcons, now ten-time champions, enter the tournament as frontrunners. Led by head coach Justin Madugu, the team is focused on preserving its storied legacy and dominance in African football. As the continent gears up for this significant event, fans can expect a fierce competition ahead.
Preparations Intensify Ahead of WAFCON
Nigeria officially began its training camp in Casablanca, the commercial heart of Morocco, on Monday, signaling serious preparations for the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Under Madugu’s guidance, the first training session took place at Stade El Albi Zauri, with players eager to showcase their skills.
By Tuesday afternoon, 10 players had reported for duty at the team’s base at the Marriott Hotel, with midfielder Toni Payne—recently signed from Everton Ladies to Inter Milan Ladies—expected to join the squad shortly. Early arrivals included team captain Rashidat Ajibade, star goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadojie, and other key players, ready to focus on securing a successful tournament.
Ghana Friendly for Final Tune-Up
As part of their final preparations, Nigeria will take on their traditional rivals, Ghana, in an international friendly match scheduled for Saturday at Stade El Albi Zauri. This encounter is more than just a practice; it rekindles one of the oldest rivalries in African women’s football.
Historically, Ghana’s Black Queens have posed a significant challenge, having faced Nigeria in the inaugural Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final in 1998. For Coach Madugu, this match provides a crucial opportunity to refine his strategies before the competitive action kicks off.
Group C Challenges Await Defending Champions
Nigeria finds itself placed in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt, and newcomer Malawi. The Super Falcons will begin their title defense against Malawi on July 28 in Rabat, followed by a match against Zambia on August 1 and a concluding group stage match against Egypt on August 5.
While the Super Falcons are the favorites, Zambia has emerged as one of the potential threats in the group, making this a highly anticipated lineup.
The Stakes are Higher Than Ever
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is set to be a landmark event, introducing a record number of 16 participating teams. This competition not only aims for continental supremacy but also serves as a gateway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The top four teams will automatically qualify, with the fifth-placed team entering an intercontinental playoff for another chance at World Cup entry. The Super Falcons, who have participated in every FIFA Women’s World Cup since its inception, are eager to extend their impressive streak.
The Road to Championship: Nigeria’s Recent Triumph
As the reigning champions, the Super Falcons arrive in Morocco filled with confidence after last summer’s thrilling 3-2 victory over the host nation, Morocco, to clinch their historic 10th WAFCON title. Having secured 10 championships in the last 13 tournaments, Nigeria remains the standard-bearer for women’s football on the continent.
Key Players to Watch
Rashidat Ajibade (Captain)
Ajibade, the inspiring captain, will guide the team. Known for her relentless work ethic and creativity, she remains one of the Falcons’ most dynamic players.
Chiamaka Nnadojie
Widely recognized as Africa’s top goalkeeper, Nnadojie enters the tournament in stellar form, expected to be a critical asset for Nigeria’s defense.
Asisat Oshoala
As one of Africa’s all-time greats, Oshoala brings invaluable experience and scoring prowess to the squad, enhancing the team’s competitive edge.
Jennifer Echeghini
This talented midfielder has quickly established herself as a crucial playmaker, ready to influence outcomes from the center of the pitch.
Toni Payne
Fresh off her move to Inter Milan Women, Payne’s creativity and versatility are pivotal for Nigeria’s attacking strategies as they aim for another title.
Super Falcons Roster for WAFCON 2026
Goalkeepers
Chiamaka Nadozi (Brighton & Hove Albion, England), Comfort Eljaboor (Portsmouth Ladies, England), Fatima Oroko (Abia Angels)
Defenders
Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico), Michelle Aloji (Olivia Wynn, USA), Shukrat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy), Rofiat Imran (London City Lionesses, England), Glory Ogbonna (FC Kiryat Gat, Israel), Oluwatocin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey), Sikiratu Isa (Bunot Netanya, Israel), Christy Uchebe (SL Benfica, Portugal)
Midfielders
Rashidat Ajibade (Paris Saint-Germain, France), Halimatou Ayinde (BK Hakken, Sweden), Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA), Toni Payne (Inter Milan Women, Italy), Jennifer Echesini (Paris Saint-Germain, France)
Forwards
Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Gift Monday (Washington Spirit, USA), Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada), Joy Omewa (BK Haken, Sweden), Francisca Ordega (Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Folashadeh Ijamirsi (Liaoning Shenyang/Shenbeihefeng, China), Omorinsola Babajide (AS Roma, Italy), Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico), Uchenna Kanu (Cruz Azul Femenil, Mexico)
Complete Group Lineup for WAFCON 2026
Group A (Rabat)
Morocco, Algeria, Senegal, Kenya
Group B (Casablanca)
South Africa, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Tanzania
Group C (Rabat)
Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt, Malawi
Group D (Casablanca)
Ghana, Cameroon, Mali, Cape Verde
