Super Falcons eye WAFCON 2026 berth as Benin make spirited charge

The Super Falcons of Nigeria have named a strong 21-player squad ahead of their final qualification tie for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026, with one eye on the prize as they prepare to face the Benin Republic Women’s National Team.

Head coach Justine Madugu has boosted the squad with key figures including captain Rasheedat Ajibade, veteran forward Asisat Oshoala and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, as the Falcons look to extend their continental dominance.

Their opponents, the Amazons of Benin Republic, have expressed confidence ahead of the two-legged tie despite acknowledging a technical and physical gap. Coach Abdoulaye Ouzerou noted that while his side may be inferior in certain aspects, they believe in the power of mentality. “We’re going to count on their heart, because if you’re physically and technically inferior, you have to compensate mentally. And for me, mentally, they’re ready.” he said.

The first leg takes place in Lomé, Togo at the Stade Kégué because Benin’s usual home ground failed to secure CAF approval. The return fixture is scheduled for Abeokuta in Nigeria.

For Nigeria, the stakes include not only continental glory but also a pathway toward the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, as the 2026 WAFCON finals double as Africa’s qualification tournament for the global event.

Editorial

We look at this key qualifying tie and believe it offers much more than just a place at the finals. We see it as a measure of where Nigerian women’s football stands and whether momentum built over past triumphs is being maintained. The inclusion of Nnadozie, Ajibade and Oshoala sends a statement experience matters. But so does preparation. With the Super Falcons operating as the benchmark in Africa, any complacency at this stage would be dangerous. It is not enough to rely on heritage or reputation alone.

Nigeria have assembled a strong squad and they understand the edge that comes with being under pressure. They must harness that. Meanwhile, we are impressed by Benin’s mindset. To step into this fixture acknowledging inferiority yet vowing to bridge the gap mentally is commendable. That kind of grit could unsettle more fancied opponents. It reminds us that in sport heart and belief often count as much as ability.

Nevertheless, the Falcons cannot waver. The tie will be decided not just in moments of brilliance but in sustained implementation: tactical clarity, discipline, intensity, and the closing out of games. We urge them to treat Benin with the respect they deserve but not with fear.

Nigeria are favourites, yes yet history shows these matches are rarely easy. If they maintain focus from first whistle to last minute of the return leg, the ticket to Morocco and beyond should be earned. Let this tie reinforce their ambition and readiness. For us, fulfilment will come only when the Super Falcons convert this opportunity into a display worthy of their status.

Did You Know?

1. The Super Falcons hold the record for the most Women’s Africa Cup of Nations titles, having won nine championships prior to the 2026 qualifiers.
2. The 2026 WAFCON finals will also serve as the African continental qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil meaning success has dual significance.
3. The match between Benin and Nigeria will be played at the Stade Kégué in Lomé, Togo because Benin’s home stadium lacked the required CAF approval.
4. Chiamaka Nnadozie became the youngest goalkeeper ever to represent Nigeria at a major senior women’s tournament when she first appeared at 18.
5. Benin’s ladies team secured their place in this final qualifying round by defeating Sierra Leone 5-2 on aggregate in the earlier stage.