Nigeria’s Head Coach, Justine Madugu has emphasized that the Super Falcons will not underestimate the Benin Republic as they aim to secure qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Super Falcons carry a comfortable 2-0 aggregate lead from the first leg, thanks to goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo.
The decisive second leg against the Amazons of Benin Republic will take place on Tuesday, October 28, at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.
With a record 10 continental titles, Madugu said the team is focused on defending their crown which he described as ‘Mission XI’.
Despite holding the advantage, Madugu warned against complacency, stressing that qualification remained the immediate priority.
Speaking to the Nigerian Football Federation, NFF, she said, “We are looking forward to a tough game from the Beninoise, but we will be ready for that by putting up a good performance with the ultimate goal of qualification to the 2026 Women AFCON.”
The qualifier is a key step toward the team’s long-term ambitions. Madugu added that, “We hope to retain our title and further qualify for the World Cup in Brazil in 2027.”
The coach is expected to field a strong lineup similar to the one that secured the first-leg victory, featuring goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and the match’s goalscorers.
The squad also has depth, with six-time Africa Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala available off the bench.
The winner of the aggregate fixture will secure a place in the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The coach further explained that the Super Falcons are determined to leverage home advantage and strong fan support to maintain their continental dominance and keep ‘Mission XI’ on track.
