The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially endorsed Nigeria's Super Falcons as one of the leading favourites to successfully defend their Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at the 2026 tournament in Morocco. In its official tournament preview, CAF underscored Nigeria's unparalleled dominance in African women's football, citing the team's record 10 WAFCON titles and consistent success spanning more than two decades.
CAF Highlights Nigeria's Winning Pedigree
CAF noted that head coach Justine Madugu has sustained Nigeria's winning culture since taking charge, guiding the Super Falcons to the 2024 title and reaffirming their status as Africa's benchmark team. The continental body praised Madugu's leadership, tactical acumen, and deep understanding of the squad, stating that his management has fostered a competitive environment while preserving Nigeria's reputation as the continent's most successful women's football nation.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade was singled out as the player expected to spearhead Nigeria's campaign in Morocco, following her outstanding performances in the previous edition, where she was named Player of the Tournament. Alongside Ajibade, CAF highlighted stars such as Chiamaka Nnadozie, Asisat Oshoala, Esther Okoronkwo, Michelle Alozie, and Jennifer Echegini as key members of a squad blessed with depth and quality across every department.
Tough Group C Awaits the Super Falcons
According to the BBC, the Super Falcons qualified for the tournament after defeating Benin 3-1 on aggregate in the qualifying playoffs. They have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt, and Malawi. While acknowledging that Zambia has emerged as one of Africa's fastest-rising teams, CAF insisted that Nigeria possesses the experience, depth, and winning mentality required to navigate the group and challenge for another title.
Africa's football governing body added that the Super Falcons remain the continent's highest-ranked women's national team and will arrive in Morocco determined to extend their remarkable legacy by capturing an unprecedented 11th WAFCON trophy.
Super Falcons Begin Preparations
Nigeria's Super Falcons officially opened their training camp in Casablanca on Monday, July 13, as preparations intensified for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The team will later move to Rabat for their Group C fixtures against Malawi, Zambia, and Egypt, with the defending champions aiming to begin another title-winning campaign in convincing fashion.
