By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr
Ten-time champions and defending title holders Nigeria begin their quest for an 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations crown on Tuesday when they face tournament debutants Malawi in their opening Group C match at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat.
The Super Falcons arrive in Morocco as the team to beat after their dramatic 3-2 comeback win over hosts Morocco in the 2024 final. That victory gave Nigeria a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Coach Justine Madugu said the priority for the tournament is to reach the semi-finals and secure one of Africa’s four automatic slots for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“Our second goal is to defend the trophy and bring it back to Nigeria. We know it will not be easy because every other nation wants to depose us,” Madugu said.
Nigeria rounded off preparations with a 2-1 win over Tanzania in a friendly, with goals from captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Esther Okoronkwo. The squad features a mix of experience and youth, including PSG’s Ajibade and Jennifer Echegini, Brighton goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and forwards Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi. England-based defender Ashleigh Plumptre misses the tournament through injury.
The Falcons unveiled a new jersey with 10 stars ahead of kickoff, each star representing one of Nigeria’s continental titles.
The tournament kicked off on Saturday in Morocco with the hosts facing Kenya in the opening match. This year’s edition features a record 16 teams and a prize pot of $5.8 million, with the winners taking home $2 million.
Nigeria are in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi. A win against Malawi will set the tone for their bid to reclaim the continental crown.