Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has declared that Nigeria’s primary objective at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup before pursuing another continental triumph.
Madugu made the remarks as preparations gradually begin for the next edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which will once again take place in Morocco.
The Super Falcons head into the tournament as defending champions after winning a record-extending 10th WAFCON title in Morocco at the previous edition. The victory further cemented Nigeria’s status as the most successful team in the history of women’s football on the African continent.
With the stakes set to be even higher next year, the tournament will carry added significance as it will also serve as the qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Madugu acknowledged the importance of securing a place at the global showpiece and
insisted that World Cup qualification remains the team’s immediate priority.
According to the coach, Nigeria’s second objective will be to successfully defend their African crown and return home with another title.
“The next WAFCON will also serve as a qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, so our priority will first be to ensure that we make it to the World Cup,” Madugu told CAF Online.
“The second goal will be to defend the trophy and bring it back to Nigeria.”
Nigeria remain the dominant force in African women’s football, having won 10 WAFCON titles, more than any other nation. The Super Falcons have also consistently represented Africa on the world stage and are expected to be among the favourites when the tournament kicks off in Morocco.
Madugu’s comments underline the team’s determination to maintain its continental dominance while also ensuring Nigeria’s place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
As the countdown to the competition continues, the Super Falcons will be aiming to add another chapter to their illustrious history by securing qualification for the World Cup and capturing an unprecedented 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
