Ihezuo Confident Super Falcons Can Defend WAFCON Title in Morocco

Posted : 16 July 2026

Super Falcons forward Chinwendu Ihezuo has expressed confidence that Nigeria can successfully defend their Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title despite expecting a much tougher tournament in Morocco.

The 2026 WAFCON will take place from July 26 to August 16, with teams also battling for qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. Ihezuo believes the added incentive will make every match more competitive than previous editions.

The Pachuca Tuzas striker said every nation will have two major objectives when the competition begins. According to her, the race for World Cup qualification will increase the intensity of the tournament, making it even more challenging for the defending champions.

"This tournament will be tougher, much tougher," Ihezuo said. "Last year, there was no FIFA Women's World Cup ticket to fight for. When the first whistle goes, every team will be focused on qualifying for the World Cup."

She also warned against complacency, stressing that Nigeria must approach every match with full concentration despite their status as defending champions.

Ihezuo, however, remains confident in the quality within the Super Falcons squad. She pointed to the team's unity, determination and work ethic as the qualities that can help Nigeria retain the continental crown while also securing a place at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

"I believe in the team that we have, the oneness amongst us, our hard work, and the courage that keeps us going," she said. "We are not only going for a World Cup ticket but also to retain the Cup."

The experienced forward also provided a positive update on her fitness after spending time on the sidelines through injury. She revealed that she has fully recovered and is eager to rejoin the national team for the tournament.

Ihezuo, who plays for Mexican club Pachuca Tuzas, said she is currently involved in pre-season preparations but is ready to report for international duty once called upon.

"God has been great, and I give Him all the glory," she said. "I am now healed and fully recovered. My club is in pre-season, but I am ready to fly to Morocco and team up with the Super Falcons to make Nigeria proud."

Nigeria will head to Morocco aiming to win a record-extending 11th WAFCON title and continue their dominance in African women's football. The Super Falcons are also targeting another appearance at the FIFA Women's World Cup by securing one of the available qualification places.

Ihezuo Confident Super Falcons Can Defend WAFCON Title in Morocco

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