Nigeria’s Super Falcons have arrived in Rabat, Morocco, ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where they will begin the defence of their continental title.
The reigning African champions touched down in the Moroccan capital on Saturday after completing the final phase of their preparations in Casablanca, where they held a 10-day training camp.
The players were full of smiles and confidence as they stepped off the team bus, dressed in matching green-and-white traditional African attire complemented by beautifully tied headwraps, reflecting unity and determination ahead of the competition.
The arrival marks the beginning of Nigeria’s quest for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
Final preparations in Casablanca
Head coach Justine Madugu and his technical crew used the training camp in Casablanca to fine-tune tactics, assess player fitness and strengthen team chemistry before the tournament.
The Super Falcons wrapped up their preparations with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Malawi’s Twiga Stars in an international friendly on Thursday night.
The friendly offered Madugu another opportunity to evaluate his squad and make final adjustments before the opening group match.
Players and officials expressed satisfaction with the team’s readiness, believing the camp provided the ideal platform to build momentum heading into the tournament.
Opening challenge against Malawi
Nigeria will begin its title defence against tournament debutants Malawi at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday.
Although Malawi are making their first appearance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, the Super Falcons are expected to approach the game with caution, knowing that every point will be crucial in the race for a place in the knockout stage.
A winning start would boost Nigeria’s confidence and strengthen its chances of finishing at the top of the group.
Group stage fixtures
All three of Nigeria’s group-stage matches will be played in Rabat.
Following the opening clash with Malawi, the Super Falcons will take on Zambia’s Copper Queens at the Al Madina Stadium in what is expected to be one of the toughest fixtures in the group.
Nigeria will then conclude its group campaign against Egypt’s Cleopatras at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
The group presents a mix of experienced opponents and emerging teams, making consistency essential for the defending champions.
Mission to win title number 11
The Super Falcons remain the most successful team in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, having won the competition a record 10 times.
Their remarkable achievements have established Nigeria as the dominant force in African women’s football for more than two decades.
With a blend of experienced internationals and promising young talents, expectations are once again high that the team can successfully defend its crown.
Coach Madugu will be counting on his players to maintain the high standards associated with the Super Falcons as they pursue another memorable campaign in Morocco.
Victory at the tournament would not only secure an unprecedented 11th continental title but also further strengthen Nigeria’s reputation as Africa’s leading powerhouse in women’s football.
Source: Blueprint
