Mission 11: Chiamaka Nnadozie Declares Super Falcons Ready for WAFCON 2026 Title Defense

 

​The road to continental glory has officially begun for Nigeria’s senior women’s national team. As the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) approaches, the Super Falcons have sent a clear message to their rivals: they are not just participating; they are coming to defend their crown. In a recent press briefing on Saturday, February 28, 2026, star goalkeeper and Brighton & Hove Albion sensation Chiamaka Nnadozie insisted that the team is mentally and physically prepared to secure a record-extending 11th continental title.

​With the tournament scheduled to take place in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026, the anticipation across the continent is palpable. For the Super Falcons, this edition represents more than just a trophy—it is a quest to cement their "La Décima Plus One" legacy and secure a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

​"No Pressure": Nnadozie’s Calm Confidence

​Speaking from the team's training camp, Chiamaka Nnadozie, widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, dismissed suggestions that the weight of being defending champions would hinder the team's performance. Having played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s 2025 triumph, Nnadozie emphasized that the squad thrives under high-stakes conditions.

​"Honestly, we are not under any pressure at all," Nnadozie told reporters. "We have worked so hard over the years to be where we are today. We respect every team working to be in this position, but our focus is on our own growth. We take it one game at a time, one training session at a time."

​Nnadozie’s leadership is crucial as the team integrates a mix of seasoned veterans like Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala with emerging talents. Her performance in the English Women’s Super League has been stellar, and her presence between the sticks provides a foundation of security for the Nigerian defense.

​The Road to Morocco: Group Stage and Fixtures

​The draw for the 16-team tournament has placed Nigeria in Group C, a pool that promises intense competition. The Super Falcons will be based in the historic city of Casablanca, playing their matches at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.

​Super Falcons Group C Schedule:

• ​March 18, 2026: Nigeria vs. Malawi
• ​March 21, 2026: Nigeria vs. Zambia
• ​March 24, 2026: Egypt vs. Nigeria

​The opening match against debutants Malawi will be a test of focus, while the clash against Zambia—led by the prolific Barbra Banda—is widely seen as the "Group of Death" decider. Finishing at the top of the group is imperative to secure a more favorable path in the knockout stages.

​Tactical Preparation: The Justine Madugu Factor

​Under the guidance of head coach Justine Madugu, the Super Falcons have adopted a more tactically sophisticated approach. Currently in Yaoundé, Cameroon, for a high-intensity double-header friendly series against the Indomitable Lionesses, the team is fine-tuning its formations.

​Madugu’s strategy focuses on a high-pressing game and rapid transitions, leveraging the pace of wingers like Michelle Alozie. The coaching staff is also prioritizing set-piece defense, an area where Nnadozie’s aerial command will be vital. The goal is to arrive in Morocco with a squad that is not only fit but tactically flexible enough to handle the varying styles of African women’s football.

​The 2027 World Cup Stakes

​WAFCON 2026 carries an extra layer of importance: the top four teams (the semi-finalists) will automatically qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. For Nigeria, missing out on the global stage is not an option. The Super Falcons remain the only African team to have featured in every single edition of the Women’s World Cup since its inception in 1991, and they intend to keep that streak alive.

​Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making

​As the Super Falcons prepare to fly to Morocco, the spirit of "Mission 11" is alive. From the trailblazing days of Florence Omagbemi to the modern leadership of Chiamaka Nnadozie, the identity of Nigerian women’s football remains rooted in resilience and excellence. While the continent’s landscape is more competitive than ever, with Morocco and South Africa closing the gap, the Super Falcons remain the team to beat.