WAFCON 2026: Madugu expects tougher title defence with Super Falcons ahead of Malawi opener
Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has admitted Nigeria faces a tougher challenge in defending the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title as the team prepares to open its 2026 campaign against Malawi.
The defending champions begin their Group C campaign on Tuesday in Rabat before facing Zambia and Egypt in the race for a place in the knockout stage.
Madugu wary of rising competition
Having guided Nigeria to a record-extending 10th WAFCON title in Morocco last year, Madugu believes the Super Falcons will now be the team every opponent wants to beat.
“Now that we are champions, every other team will want to draw you down.”
The coach insisted his players are fully aware of the challenge ahead.
“It’s not going to be easy. We are quite aware of that and we are going to be fully ready.”
Madugu also refused to underestimate Malawi despite the Scorchers making their first appearance at the tournament. “You don’t want to undermine or underestimate what anybody can do,” he said.
Malawi coach Lovemore Fazili echoed that determination, saying his side intends to compete for every point after earning qualification.
“When we qualified, it was not an easy task. We fought for it, and definitely we are going to do the same when we play Nigeria.”
Falcons focused on strong start
Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade also urged caution ahead of the opening fixture. “They qualified for this tournament for a reason. It shows the progress they’re making.”
The Super Falcons squad combines experienced stars such as Asisat Oshoala and Chiamaka Nnadozie with emerging talents, including striker Joy Omewa.
Beyond defending their continental crown, Nigeria also has qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil in sight, with the tournament’s four semi-finalists earning automatic qualification.
Madugu’s side enters the competition as one of the favourites, but the coach believes another title will require his team to overcome stronger opposition than they faced during last year’s successful campaign.