'Every country wants to beat Nigeria' - Super Falcons hunt 11th Wafcon title

What the report says

BBC Sport Africa reports that Nigeria have arrived in Morocco for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as defending champions and favourites to extend their record to 11 titles. The Super Falcons, who won their 10th crown in Morocco last year after beating the hosts 3-2 in the final, open their Group C campaign against first-time qualifiers Malawi on Tuesday, before facing Zambia and Egypt.

Head coach Justin Madugu told the BBC that Nigeria expect every opponent to raise their level against the champions, while assistant coach Ann Chiejine said other countries are eager to defeat them. The squad includes leading figures in African football such as captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and six-time African player of the year Asisat Oshoala, alongside younger players including Sweden-based striker Joy Omewa and goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor.

The tournament carries added importance because it also serves as qualification for the next Fifa Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with all four semi-finalists securing places. Winger Francisca Ordega said Nigeria’s first objective is World Cup qualification before focusing on retaining the continental title. Nigeria have played at every Women’s World Cup since the competition began in 1991.

BBC notes that competition may be tougher in an expanded 16-team field. Malawi, despite a much lower world ranking than Nigeria, have attacking quality through Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga, while Zambia can call on Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji. Nigeria are without injured defender Ashleigh Plumptre, and the squad was also reportedly affected by thefts after arriving in Morocco. The winners’ prize money has doubled to $2m, reflecting the growth of women’s football on the continent.