Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has set clear objectives for Nigeria ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, aiming to secure World Cup qualification while also defending the continental crown.
Nigeria enter the tournament as reigning champions after claiming a record 10th WAFCON title at the previous edition in Morocco, with expectations now heightened as Morocco prepares to host again.
Beyond continental glory, the 2026 tournament also doubles as the qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, increasing the competitive stakes for all participating teams.
Madugu, speaking to CAF Online, stressed that Nigeria’s immediate priority is securing a World Cup berth before pursuing a historic 11th African title, stating, “The next WAFCON will also serve as qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, so our priority will first be to ensure that we make it to the World Cup. The second goal will be to defend the trophy and bring it back to Nigeria,” Madugu told CAF Online.
