Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has made it clear that Nigeria will not take Malawi lightly when both sides meet in their opening Group C fixture of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that every team at the tournament deserves respect regardless of history or reputation.
The defending African champions begin another quest for continental glory with high expectations resting on their shoulders, but Madugu believes complacency could prove costly in a competition where several emerging nations have made remarkable progress in recent years.
Nigeria enters the tournament as the most successful team in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, having won the title a record number of times. Despite that rich pedigree, the Super Falcons coach has reminded his players that previous achievements will count for little once the opening whistle is blown.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, Madugu stressed that his technical crew has prepared thoroughly for Malawi and understands the importance of starting the competition with maximum points. He explained that every nation at the tournament qualified on merit and possesses the quality to cause problems if underestimated.
The coach acknowledged that African women’s football has developed significantly over the last decade, with countries investing more resources into player development, coaching and domestic competitions. According to him, the growing competitiveness across the continent means Nigeria must approach every fixture with complete focus and professionalism.
Madugu noted that Malawi may be making only their second appearance at the continental championship, but that does not diminish their ambition or ability. He described the Scorchers as an organised side capable of creating difficulties for any opponent and insisted his players would prepare with the same intensity they would show against any traditional African powerhouse.
The Super Falcons head into the tournament with confidence after completing an encouraging build up that included positive performances in international friendly matches. The coaching crew believes those preparations have improved the team’s understanding, fitness and tactical discipline ahead of what promises to be another demanding campaign.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade has also echoed her coach’s message by emphasizing that the team’s immediate priority is securing all three points in the opening match. The experienced forward believes a winning start would provide the confidence needed to build momentum for the remainder of the tournament.
Nigeria’s squad combines experienced internationals with exciting young talents who have impressed in Europe, North America and domestic competitions. The blend of youth and experience is expected to give the Super Falcons the balance required to compete successfully against the continent’s best teams.
One of the biggest threats Nigeria will face against Malawi is the attacking partnership of sisters Tabitha Chawinga and Temwa Chawinga. Both players have established themselves among Africa’s most dangerous forwards and will be eager to inspire their country to a memorable result against the defending champions.
Madugu, however, expressed confidence in his defenders’ ability to manage the challenge, stressing that football is a collective game where teamwork, discipline and tactical organisation are often more important than individual talent.
Victory in the opening fixture would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s chances of progressing to the knockout stage while also sending a strong message to other title contenders that the Super Falcons remain determined to retain their continental crown.
Beyond the group stage, the Nigerian team has its sights firmly set on lifting another WAFCON trophy and securing qualification for future global competitions. Achieving those objectives, however, begins with a disciplined performance against Malawi.
Football analysts believe Nigeria possesses superior experience and squad depth, but many have also warned that Malawi should not be dismissed given the rapid improvement of women’s football across Africa. Recent tournaments have shown that smaller football nations are becoming increasingly capable of competing with traditional giants.
Supporters across Nigeria are expected to follow the match with great anticipation, hoping the Super Falcons can deliver another convincing performance and continue the country’s proud legacy in African women’s football.
For Madugu, the focus remains simple. Respect the opponent, maintain concentration and execute the game plan from the first whistle to the final minute.
If the Super Falcons can successfully combine their experience, attacking quality and defensive discipline, they will take an important first step toward another successful Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign and reinforce their reputation as Africa’s leading force in women’s football.
