Nigeria begins Wafcon title defense against Malawi and aims for 11th crown
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 27, 2026, 4:47 PM
Last updated Jul 27, 2026
Nigeria's Super Falcons face Malawi in their opening match of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) in Morocco. The team, looking to defend their title and secure an 11th championship, is aware of heightened expectations and increased competition following the expansion of the tournament to 16 teams. Coach Justin Madugu emphasizes the need for readiness as every team is eager to defeat the reigning champions. The squad features prominent players, including captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala, alongside emerging talents. Nigeria's initial match against Malawi is scheduled for Tuesday, followed by contests against Zambia and Egypt.
- •Nigeria has won 10 Wafcon titles since 1998, more than any other nation.
- •Super Falcons start group stage against Malawi, followed by Zambia and Egypt.
- •Competition increases as the tournament expands from 12 to 16 teams.
- •Wafcon doubles as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.
- •Coach Madugu acknowledges the challenge of retaining the title amid rising competition.
- 4:47 PMYahoo Sports — 'Every country wants to beat Nigeria' - Super Falcons hunt 11th Wafcon title
- 4:47 PMBBC Sport — 'Every country wants to beat Nigeria' - Super Falcons hunt 11th Wafcon title
"Nigeria face Malawi, Zambia and Egypt at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, looking to defend their crown and claim an 11th title.
"Nigeria face Malawi, Zambia and Egypt at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, looking to defend their crown and claim an 11th title.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 27, 2026, 4:47 PM'Every country wants to beat Nigeria' - Super Falcons hunt 11th Wafcon title
Nigeria face Malawi, Zambia and Egypt at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, looking to defend their crown and claim an 11th title.
- BBC SportJul 27, 2026, 4:47 PM'Every country wants to beat Nigeria' - Super Falcons hunt 11th Wafcon title
Nigeria face Malawi, Zambia and Egypt at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, looking to defend their crown and claim an 11th title.
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