Nigeria’s reigning African champions, the Super Falcons, will take on Benin’s Amazons on Tuesday in the return leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying tie at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta.
Holding a 2–0 advantage from the first leg in Lomé—thanks to strikes from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo—the Falcons are set to defend their lead in front of a home crowd.
Coach Justine Madugu pointed out the need for vigilance, saying, “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, where we hope to retain our title and further qualify for the World Cup in Brazil in 2027.”
He added: “We are not taking anything for granted or leaving anything to chance. We will be ready to go all out for victory.”
Madugu warned that the Amazons, who fielded about 10 professionals from Germany, Morocco, France and Equatorial Guinea, proved resilient in the first leg.
“The Amazons with about 10 professional players… gave a good account of themselves in the first leg, to underscore the fact that underrating any team now in Africa could be at your own peril,” he said.
The Falcons are likely to retain the same starting XI that secured the early lead. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will guard the posts, while Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin and Ashley Plumptre will form the backline.
In midfield, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Deborah Abiodun and Taiwo Afolabi will control the tempo, with Ihezuo, Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi spearheading the attack.
Madugu also has Asisat Oshoala, Joy Omewa and Kafayat Mafisere on standby for tactical changes.
Kickoff is slated for 4 p.m. WAT at the MKO Abiola Stadium.
The aggregate winner will secure a spot in the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, set for Morocco from 17 March to 3 April 2026, and take a crucial step toward the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Leave a comment