Defending champions, Nigeria announce WAFCON 2026 squad

The Super Falcons of Nigeria, Africa's most successful women's national team, have announced their squad for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), and the stakes are higher than ever. The team, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, will head into the competition as defending champions after defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 in last year's final to claim their 10th African crown. The 2026 edition will be the first WAFCON tournament to feature 16 teams, and Nigeria's quest for a record-extending 11th continental title has never been more crucial.

The 25-player squad announced by Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu boasts an impressive mix of experience and youth. Veteran striker Asisat Oshoala, one of Africa's all-time top scorers, will lead the attack alongside Gift Monday and Esther Okoronkwo. In midfield, Rasheedat Ajibade and Halimatu Ayinde will provide the creative spark, while Comfort Erhabor and Chiamaka Nnadozie will anchor the defense. This lineup has the potential to be Nigeria's strongest yet, and the team's success will depend on their ability to gel as a unit.

The 2026 edition of WAFCON will be played in Morocco from July 26 to August 16, with Nigeria drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia, and tournament debutants Malawi. The group-stage matches will all be played in Rabat, Morocco's administrative capital, and the Super Falcons will face stiff competition from their opponents. However, with their experience and talent, they are well-equipped to navigate the challenges ahead and make a strong run in the tournament.

Beyond the quest for continental glory, the stakes are even higher for the Super Falcons. The four semi-finalists in WAFCON 2026 will qualify automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, while the fifth-placed team will also have a chance to reach the global showpiece through an intercontinental playoff. This adds an extra layer of pressure to the tournament, but Nigeria's experienced team is well-placed to capitalize on the opportunities.

The Super Falcons have been Africa's most successful women's national team for decades, and their qualification for every FIFA Women's World Cup since the inaugural tournament in China 35 years ago is evidence of their dominance. With their strong squad and determination to succeed, they are the team to beat at WAFCON 2026. However, the competition is fierce, and Nigeria will need to be at the top of their game to emerge victorious.

Based on their experience, talent, and determination, I predict that the Super Falcons will win WAFCON 2026. With their strong squad and the backing of their fans, they have the potential to make history and win their record-extending 11th continental title. However, the competition will be fierce, and Nigeria will need to be at the top of their game to emerge victorious.

As the Super Falcons prepare to defend their title, the continent's women's football fans are eagerly awaiting the tournament. With Nigeria's strong squad and determination to succeed, the stage is set for an exciting and competitive WAFCON 2026.