Nigeria Super Falcons gear up for 2026 WAFCON title defence in Morocco

Nigeria’s women’s national team, the Super Falcons, are preparing to defend their Africa Cup of Nations crown at the 2026 tournament in Morocco. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie said the squad will take the competition “one match at a time,” focusing on retaining the trophy and securing a FIFA Women’s World Cup ticket. The expanded 16‑team finals will run from 26 July to 16 August, with all matches in Rabat and Casablanca.

The team began a training camp in Casablanca, joined by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, star forward Asisat Oshoala and several other key players. Coach Justine Madugu will use the camp to fine‑tune tactics and fitness before the group stage, where Nigeria faces Malawi, Zambia and Egypt in Group C. The Falcons aim to extend their record to an 11th WAFCON title and earn one of the qualification spots for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Nnadozie dismissed claims of “minnows” in the competition, noting that the gap between traditional powerhouses and emerging teams has narrowed. She emphasized that complacency must be avoided and that every opponent deserves respect.