Nigeria's Super Falcons have arrived in Morocco with significant expectations as they embark on their campaign to defend the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title. Having secured a record-extending 10th championship in the North African nation last July, the team remains the dominant force in African women's football. Head coach Justin Madugu, who led the team to victory last year with a 3-2 win over the hosts, acknowledges the increased challenge, stating that "every other team will want to draw you down."
The Super Falcons, who last successfully defended their title in 2018 as part of a hat-trick of wins, will kick off their Group C fixtures against debutants Malawi on Tuesday, before facing Zambia and Egypt. Assistant coach Ann Chiejine, a four-time WAFCON winner as a player, emphasised the need for intensified training, noting, "Every country wants to beat Nigeria." The squad features prominent names such as captain Rasheedat Ajibade, last year's best player, African goalkeeper of the year Chiamaka Nnadozie, and six-time African player of the year Asisat Oshoala. However, Madugu has also integrated promising young talents, including Swedish-based striker Joy Omewa.
Nigeria's dominance in the tournament is profound, having claimed 10 out of 13 titles since 1998. Only Equatorial Guinea (2008 and 2012) and South Africa (2022) have managed to break their stronghold. This year's competition, however, presents a new dynamic with the expansion from 12 to 16 teams, suggesting a broader base of competitive nations. Furthermore, the WAFCON serves a dual purpose as a qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, with all four semi-finalists guaranteed a place.
Winger Francisca Ordega highlighted the team's immediate priority: "Our first target is to qualify for the World Cup. After that we can think of defending our title." Nigeria has a consistent record of representing Africa at every World Cup since its inception in 1991. The 2023 tournament saw a record four African nations participate, including Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia, underscoring the continent's growing prowess in women's football.
The Super Falcons are aware of the potential threats, even from lower-ranked teams. Malawi, despite being 153rd in the world compared to Nigeria's 36th, boasts a formidable attack with the Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa. Tabitha was instrumental in Lyon's fifth consecutive league title win in France last season, while Temwa has excelled in the US National Women's Soccer League. Zambia also presents a challenge with their experienced strike duo Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, both playing in the USA. Madugu cautioned against underestimating any opponent, with Ajibade noting Malawi's qualification as a sign of their progress.