Super Falcons Target WAFCON Qualification as Madugu Warns Against Complacency

Head Coach of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, Justine Madugu, says his team will not take anything for granted when they face the Amazons of Benin Republic in the return leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying tie on Tuesday in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The reigning African champions go into the match with a 2–0 first-leg advantage, courtesy of goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo at the Stade Kégué in Lomé on Friday. Despite that lead, Madugu insists that the Falcons are expecting a tougher challenge on home soil.

“We anticipate a strong response from the Beninoise team, but we’re fully prepared to deliver a solid performance. Our ultimate goal is to qualify for the 2026 WAFCON and defend our title, which will also serve as a pathway to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil,” Madugu said in a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation on Monday.

He also cautioned against complacency, noting that the Amazons fielded about 10 foreign-based players from countries including Germany, France, Morocco, and Equatorial Guinea, and showed quality in the first leg. “Underrating any team in Africa now is risky. We’ll be ready to go all out for victory,” he added.

Madugu is expected to stick with a largely unchanged lineup featuring goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, and Ashley Plumptre. In midfield, captain Rasheedat Ajibade will team up with Deborah Abiodun and Taiwo Afolabi, while Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi lead the attack.

He may also introduce experienced forward and six-time African Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, as well as Joy Omewa and Kafayat Mafisere, to bolster the frontline.

The crucial encounter is set for 4 p.m. at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, with the aggregate winner booking a place at the 14th WAFCON scheduled for Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.

The 10-time African champions resumed training at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena on Sunday as they aim to extend their dominance on the continent and build momentum toward qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.