Super Falcons midfielder Jennifer Echegini says she is eager to make her debut at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, describing the tournament as a unique opportunity to represent Nigeria on African soil.
Though Echegini has already competed in two global tournaments the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games this will be her first appearance at Africa’s flagship women’s event. Speaking to CAFonline, the Paris Saint-Germain star said, “It’s very special. I’ve been in major international competitions, but I haven’t played in a WAFCON yet. This will be my first time, and I’m very excited. I watched the last edition two years ago and already thought: ‘One day, it’ll be my turn.’ Now that moment is here.”
The midfielder emphasised the emotional and cultural significance of the event “It’s a different atmosphere, a different energy. Representing my country on the African continent is a huge honour. The Women’s AFCON is about history, culture, emotion. I can’t wait to live it from the inside.”
Nigeria has been drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. While the Super Falcons are heavily favoured, Echegini warned against complacency “It’s a tough group. On paper, we’re the favourites, clearly. But in this kind of tournament, that doesn’t mean anything. We’ll need to be focused from the first minute and never underestimate the opposition.”
With 11 international appearances and two goals so far, Echegini hopes to make a meaningful impact in Morocco. “I’m a midfielder, so my role is to create, organise, and also score when I can. I want to be a constant support for my teammates across all areas of the pitch. Nothing complicated—just doing what I know how to do. Simply being useful,” she said.
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Echegini also acknowledged the expectations on the Super Falcons to reclaim their status after finishing fourth at the last edition. “We live with it. The pressure has always been there. When you wear the Nigerian jersey, you know the expectations are sky-high. But that’s a good thing, really. Nigeria has won this competition multiple times. As the new generation, it’s our duty to carry on that tradition.”
Editorial
Jennifer Echegini’s passion for her WAFCON debut is not only heartening it’s deeply telling. In her words lies a blend of humility, responsibility, and fierce ambition that reflects the changing face of the Super Falcons. Gone are the days when African tournaments were merely seen as stepping stones to global events. Now, WAFCON is where legacies are tested and reborn.
Echegini’s journey from NCAA football in the US to Paris Saint-Germain mirrors the trajectory of a new Nigerian footballer global in exposure, grounded in heritage. And while she has dazzled at the World Cup and Olympics, her excitement for WAFCON sends a powerful message continental football matters. It’s about roots, pride, and proving oneself in front of those who understand the weight of the green and white jersey best.
We believe her perspective is exactly what Nigeria needs heading into Morocco. After the stumble in the last edition, the Super Falcons must approach this tournament not as defending giants but as challengers. Echegini understands that. Her readiness to “just be useful” is the kind of mindset that wins titles—not just with skill, but with service.
Nigeria’s opponents may look less intimidating on paper, but this is football on African soil—nothing is ever straightforward. If the Falcons are to rise again, players like Echegini must become not just creators but cultural leaders, shaping a new team identity that’s as hungry as it is proud.
With her vision, energy, and quiet confidence, we’re convinced that WAFCON 2024 won’t just be her debut—it could be her stage.
Did You Know?
- Jennifer Echegini played for two universities in the U.S.—Mississippi State and Florida State before turning professional.
- She was born in the Netherlands to Nigerian parents and raised in the United Kingdom.
- Nigeria have won all 11 of their WAFCON titles without ever missing a semi-final since the tournament began.
- PSG Women signed Echegini in January 2024, following her breakout season with Juventus in Italy.
- The last time WAFCON was hosted in Morocco (2022), Nigeria were eliminated in the semi-finals by the hosts on penalties.
