Nigeria Eyes Historic 10th WAFCON Title with Renewed Determination

 

Nigeria’s Super Falcons are setting their sights on reclaiming their crown at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. As nine-time champions and Africa’s top-ranked women’s football team, Nigeria boasts an unmatched legacy with 48 wins from 61 games across 12 WAFCON finals. However, recent tournaments have shown that their dominance is no longer guaranteed.

The Super Falcons endured a disappointing campaign in 2022, losing three matches and finishing fourth, their joint-worst performance in the competition's history. This year, the team returns with renewed determination under interim head coach Justin Madugu, who replaced Randy Waldrum after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games. Madugu, formerly Waldrum’s assistant, believes the team is ready to win again and bring the trophy back home.

The squad features a mix of experienced players and emerging talent. Veterans like six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, four-time WAFCON champion Francisca Ordega, and top goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie are key figures. However, almost half the 2022 squad has been replaced, signaling a period of transition.

Nigeria has branded their campaign as "Mission X" as they aim for a record-extending tenth title. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, one of the joint top scorers in 2022, admitted the team has had limited time to bond but hopes to build enough chemistry to succeed.

Ordega emphasized the hunger in the squad, particularly among players making their tournament debut, stating that everyone is eager to win and make a name. The Falcons will begin their group stage against Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. Their pre-tournament form has been promising, with victories over Algeria, Cameroon, and Ghana, and a draw against Portugal.

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