Nnadozie urges Super Falcons to stay focused ahead of WAFCON title defence

Posted : 14 July 2026

Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has said Nigeria will approach the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with humility and discipline as the defending champions prepare to begin their campaign in Morocco later this month.

The Paris FC shot-stopper insisted the nine-time champions will not underestimate any opponent despite their status as Africa's most successful women's national team. She said the squad will focus on one game at a time as they pursue another continental title and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

Speaking to the Nigeria Football Federation, Nnadozie stressed that overconfidence could prove costly in a tournament that features stronger competition than ever before.

"We will take it one match at a time because we cannot afford to stumble at any stage as a result of overconfidence," Nnadozie said. "Our focus is firmly on achieving our two goals, winning the trophy again and qualifying for the FIFA Women's World Cup."

Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and tournament newcomers Malawi. The expanded 16-team competition will run from July 26 to August 16 in Morocco, with more nations competing than in previous editions.

Nnadozie welcomed the expansion of the tournament, describing it as a positive step for women's football across Africa. She believes the increased number of participating teams will make the championship even more competitive while providing more countries with an opportunity to develop.

"It is exciting to see more teams at the finals," she said. "It will certainly make the competition more competitive, but we remain calm and focused regardless of the number of teams involved."

The three-time reigning CAF Women's Goalkeeper of the Year also rejected the idea that some groups are easier than others. According to the 24-year-old, the rapid improvement of women's football across the continent means every nation deserves respect.

"I don't believe any group is tougher than another. There are no longer minnows in African women's football," she said. "There will be surprises because the so-called smaller teams are eager to prove themselves. Every team must be respected and taken seriously."

Despite expecting a difficult tournament, Nnadozie remains confident that Nigeria have the quality and experience to defend their continental crown. She believes the Super Falcons possess the mentality needed to compete for another title while maintaining their position among Africa's elite teams.

The Super Falcons head into the tournament as one of the favourites after winning a record 10 WAFCON titles. Under head coach Justin Madugu, the team will be aiming to extend that record and secure one of Africa's qualification places for the next FIFA Women's World Cup.

Nnadozie urges Super Falcons to stay focused ahead of WAFCON title defence

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