Super Falcons Seek WAFCON 2026 Qualification, Eye 2027 World Cup

The Nigerian women's national football team, the Super Falcons, coached by Justine Madugu, is preparing for the second leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying match against the Benin Republic. Holding a 2-0 lead from the first leg, Madugu emphasized the importance of not underestimating their opponents, highlighting that the Benin team includes about 10 professional players from abroad, making the match a tough challenge. The encounter, scheduled to take place at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, is crucial as the aggregate winner will secure a spot in the 2026 WAFCON tournament in Morocco. The Super Falcons also aim beyond this, targeting qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade and key players like Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo are expected to lead the team, with Madugu confident in the squad's readiness and determination to win on home soil. The team stresses discipline, consistency, and respect for their opponents to maintain their record as 10-time African champions and to achieve their long-term goals.