As the 13th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicks off in Morocco from July 5 to 26, the Super Falcons of Nigeria return with a familiar mission: to assert their dominance and capture a record-extending 10th continental title.
With nine championships already under their belt, Nigeria enters the tournament as Africa’s most successful team and perennial favorites, but the gap between them and the chasing pack has narrowed.
This year’s campaign will not be about coasting on history; it will demand grit, focus, and flawless execution in a field that’s never been more competitive.
Coach Justine Madugu’s star-studded 24-player squad is arguably the most balanced of the 12 participating nations heading into the tournament and is unrivalled by any other team—on paper. The return of talismanic forward Asisat Oshoala and commanding defender Ashleigh Plumptre is a major boost after both missed the recent friendly against Cameroon.
Oshoala, a six-time winner of the Women’s African Player of the Year award, remains one of the most lethal forwards in the women’s game. Plumptre,meanwhile, adds versatility and leadership in defence, qualities that will be crucial in high-stakes matches.
In goal, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Africa’s safest hands, continues to offer confidence and reliability, while captain Rasheedat Ajibade brings grit, creativity, and big-match experience. The midfield duo of Deborah Abiodun and Christy Ucheibe provide steel and composure, helping control the tempo and recover possession.
Nigeria finds itself in Group B, alongside Tunisia, Botswana and Algeria – a group that the Super Falcons should top comfortably, provided they stay focused.
Tunisia: A physically solid and tactically disciplined team, but unlikely to match Nigeria’s firepower.
Algeria: Improving tactically but historically overwhelmed by Nigeria’s pace and attacking flair.
Botswana: A spirited side but the weakest in the group on paper, more of a test in discipline than in danger.
Should the Falcons maintain professionalism and intensity, they should finish the group stage with maximum points. Still, early tournament complacency must be avoided, as WAFCON history has shown that surprise upsets are never far off.
The road to glory rarely ends with the group stage. Nigeria’s greatest challenges will come in the knockout phases, particularly the semi-final and final, with teams like South Africa, Morocco and Zambia waiting in the wings.
South Africa’s Banyana Banyana have emerged as Nigeria’s fiercest rivals and biggest hurdle. They defeated the Falcons in the group stage in 2022 and went on to lift the trophy.
Nonetheless, South Africa’s preparation for their WAFCON defence has been hampered by off-field issues, particularly related to the release of funds. Complicating matters further, star striker Thembi Kgatlana withdrew from this year’s squad for personal reasons, meaning they have to make do with what is available.
Verdict: A 10th title is within reach but far from guaranteed
The Super Falcons enter this tournament with pedigree and depth. But the rest of Africa is catching up. The era of easy dominance is over, and Nigeria must now earn every victory.
That said, if they play to their potential, balancing experience with hunger and taking each game seriously, Nigeria could very well be crowned African champions for the 10th time.
Come July 26, the Super Falcons might just be lifting the trophy once again, but only if they rise to the moment.
