WAFCON 2026: Madugu Eyes Successful Title Defence With Super Falcons

Justine Madugu has outlined ambitious targets for the Super Falcons ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with the team aiming to retain their continental crown and secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The Super Falcons claimed a record-extending 10th WAFCON title at the last edition of the tournament in Morocco and will return to the North African nation determined to defend their crown.

The stakes are even higher this time, as the 2026 WAFCON will also serve as the African qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Madugu Outlines Super Falcons’ Ambition

Madugu said the Super Falcons are focused on achieving both objectives—booking a place at the global showpiece and winning a record-extending 11th continental title.

“The next WAFCON will also serve as 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. The second goal will be to defend the trophy and bring it back to Nigeria,” Madugu told CAFonline.

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“We know it won’t be easy because as champions everybody will now be looking at us. We are holding something precious that everybody wants, but we will remain resolute and focused and try as much as possible to achieve both objectives.

On WAFCON Expansion

The WAFCON 2026 finals will feature an expanded 16-team format for the first time, a move Madugu believes is a major boost for the growth of women’s football across Africa.

“For me, it is a very positive development because expanding WAFCON to 16 teams allows more countries to experience the competition and showcase the progress they have made in developing women’s football.

“It will also help grow the game across the continent because more nations will have the chance to measure themselves against the best, assess their level of investment, and identify areas where they can improve. Beyond the teams, it creates a bigger platform for players to showcase their abilities, improve their careers, and attract more opportunities.

“The expansion will also encourage more investment in women’s football because people will be able to see the level of work being done across different countries and understand the importance of supporting the growth of the women’s game.”

By Adeboye Amosu