Super Falcons downplay pressure ahead of WAFCON final

Nigeria’s Super Falcons are one win away from a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title but insist they are unfazed by mounting pressure ahead of Saturday’s final against hosts Morocco in Rabat.

After a hard-fought 2-1 semi-final victory over defending champions South Africa, the Falcons are looking to reclaim the continental crown for the first time since 2018.

A win would not only avenge their painful 2022 semi-final exit, also at the hands of Morocco, but would also complete what coach Justin Mudugu has dubbed “Mission X.”

Despite the stakes, the team has dismissed any suggestions of nerves.

“We’re not worried about the pressure,” said forward Esther Okoronkwo. “People talk, but our focus is on the trophy and bringing it back to Nigeria.”

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade described the campaign as emotional and said the players are driven by the desire to restore national pride after falling short in the last edition.

“It’s not easy to lead this incredible team to the final,” Ajibade said. “We’ll give everything in this last match.”

Paris Saint-Germain’s Jennifer Echegini, making her tournament debut, said the squad is blocking out external noise.

“We’re staying off social media and focusing on positive energy,” she said.

Midfielder Christy Ucheibe echoed the sentiment, urging fans for continued support despite earlier criticism during the group stage.

“We’re human. Just keep believing in us,” Ucheibe said.

A win on Saturday would cement the Super Falcons’ legacy as Africa’s most dominant women’s football team.