Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade has declared that the Super Falcons are focused on opening their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a victory, insisting that collecting three points is the only result that truly matters as they begin the defence of their continental crown against Malawi.
The Super Falcons, Africa’s most successful women’s national team, begin their Group C journey in Morocco with the ambition of extending their remarkable dominance on the continent. Having lifted the WAFCON trophy a record number of times, the Nigerian side enters the tournament carrying the expectations of millions of football fans across the country.
Speaking ahead of the opening fixture, Ajibade stressed that tournament football is judged by results rather than attractive performances. According to the experienced forward, the immediate objective is to secure maximum points and build momentum for the rest of the competition.
The 26-year-old captain believes the team has prepared adequately and is mentally ready for the challenge ahead. She acknowledged that every nation participating in the championship has improved considerably, making it essential for Nigeria to approach every match with total concentration and respect for their opponents.
Although Malawi are making only their second appearance at the continental tournament, Ajibade warned against underestimating the Southern African side. She noted that African women’s football has become increasingly competitive, with several emerging nations closing the gap on traditional powerhouses.
Nigeria’s preparations have been encouraging. The Super Falcons wrapped up their pre-tournament programme with a confidence-boosting 2-1 victory over Tanzania in an international friendly. The result provided head coach Justine Madugu with another opportunity to assess his squad before the opening match while reinforcing the team’s belief ahead of the championship.
Ajibade has also enjoyed an impressive build-up to the tournament. During the off-season, she underwent an intensive personal fitness programme in Mallorca, Spain, alongside fellow Super Falcons stars Jennifer Echegini and Rinsola Babajide. The training sessions were designed to ensure the players arrived in Morocco in peak physical condition.
Beyond her physical preparation, the skipper has continued to inspire young footballers in Nigeria through coaching clinics and grassroots development initiatives. Her leadership on and off the pitch has further strengthened her role as one of the most influential figures in Nigerian women’s football.
Ajibade also called on Nigerian supporters to continue standing firmly behind the Super Falcons throughout the tournament. She described the unwavering support of fans as one of the team’s greatest strengths, adding that the players remain determined to reward that loyalty with strong performances and positive results.
Nigeria enters the competition as one of the favourites to lift the trophy once again. With a squad packed with experienced internationals and exciting young talents, expectations remain high that the Super Falcons can successfully defend their African title.
Coach Madugu has assembled a balanced squad blending experienced campaigners with emerging stars who have impressed in European leagues and domestic competitions. The technical crew believes the combination of experience, youthful energy and tactical discipline will be crucial in navigating what promises to be another demanding tournament.
The opening clash against Malawi represents more than just the first group game. A convincing victory would not only strengthen Nigeria’s chances of reaching the knockout stages but also send a strong message to other title contenders that the defending champions remain determined to retain their status as Africa’s leading women’s football nation.
The Super Falcons have built a reputation over the years for delivering under pressure, and another successful campaign would further cement their legacy as the continent’s dominant force. However, Ajibade insists the players are taking nothing for granted, choosing instead to focus on one match at a time.
With confidence running high inside the Nigerian camp and preparations completed, all attention now shifts to the opening whistle in Morocco. For Ajibade and her teammates, the mission is clear: begin with a victory, build momentum and take another decisive step toward winning yet another Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
