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Super Falcons

The Super Falcons of Nigeria are set to intensify preparations for the defence of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title, with a training camp scheduled to open on February 20, 2026.

As the 10-time African champions turn their focus to the 2026 showpiece in Morocco next month, head coach Justine Madugu’s side will also participate in a high-profile invitational tournament in Abidjan to sharpen their competitive edge.

Following the opening of their camp, the team will travel to Côte d’Ivoire for a four-nation tournament organized by the West African Football Union B zone, running from February 27 to March 7, 2026.

The mini-tournament will serve as a critical final rehearsal, pitting the Falcons against formidable regional rivals including hosts Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, and Senegal. This intense run of fixtures is designed to ensure the squad is match-ready just 10 days before the WAFCON finals kick off.

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Key members of the squad are entering the camp in mixed runs of form but with high spirits. Atletico Madrid star Rasheedat Ajibade recently returned to action after an injury layoff since November, and her influence remains undisputed, having recently been named in the IFFHS Women’s Africa XI for 2025 alongside teammates Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, and Christy Ucheibe.

Meanwhile, Asisat Oshoala continues to shine in Saudi Arabia. The six-time African Player of the Year recently netted a brace for Al Hilal Ladies in a 3-3 draw against Al Ahli, proving she remains one of the continent’s most lethal finishers.

Defensively, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has been busy in the Women’s Super League with Brighton & Hove Albion.

Despite a recent 3-2 loss to West Ham where she made four crucial saves, her shot-stopping ability and leadership remain vital for Nigeria’s defensive solidity.

Defenders Michelle Alozie and Ashleigh Plumptre were also recognized in the IFFHS Africa XI, with Alozie currently preparing for the new season with her new club, Chicago Stars FC, in the United States.

The 2026 WAFCON is scheduled to run from March 17 to April 3, 2026, in Morocco. The Super Falcons have been drawn in Group C, where they will face a tricky test against Zambia, Egypt, and debutants Malawi.

Beyond the prestige of retaining the continental crown, the stakes are high as the tournament serves as the qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with all four semi-finalists in Morocco securing automatic tickets to the global stage.

With the WAFU B tournament providing a tough warm-up, expectations are high that the Super Falcons will arrive in Morocco battle-hardened and ready to extend their dominance of African women’s football.