With 11 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) titles to their name, Nigeria’s Super Falcons enter the 2024 edition in Morocco as the most successful and feared team on the continent. Though the competition has caught up in recent years, Nigeria’s pedigree, experience, and squad depth make them strong title contenders yet again.
🏆 Legacy of Dominance
Nigeria has dominated WAFCON since its inception in 1991, winning 11 of the first 14 tournaments. However, recent editions have shown signs of vulnerability. In 2022, they were knocked out in the semifinals by hosts Morocco and finished fourth — a result they’re eager to correct in 2024.
📊 Recent Form
The Super Falcons have been in steady form leading into the tournament. Their 2024 Olympic qualification campaign and international friendlies, including games against Brazil, Japan, and South Africa, have sharpened the team. The return of several Europe-based stars has also bolstered their attacking threat.
👥 Key Players to Watch
⚡ Asisat Oshoala (Forward)
Six-time CAF Women’s Player of the Year and former Barcelona star, Oshoala is Nigeria’s most recognizable player. Her power, pace, and finishing make her one of the deadliest strikers in the game.
🎯 Rasheedat Ajibade (Midfield/Forward)
A creative spark with flair and agility, Ajibade is both a playmaker and goalscorer. Her influence has grown, especially in Oshoala’s absence.
🧠 Toni Payne (Midfielder)
Elegant and composed, Payne adds control in midfield. Her ability to dictate the tempo and link the lines is crucial for Nigeria’s tactical balance.
🔐 Chiamaka Nnadozie (Goalkeeper)
The Paris FC shot-stopper has become one of Africa’s finest keepers. Commanding in the air and excellent in one-on-one situations, she will play a key role if Nigeria is to win the title.
🧠 The Coach: Justin Madugu
Justin Madugu stepped in as interim head coach of the Super Falcons in late 2023, following Randy Waldrum’s departure. Known for his calm leadership and focus on team cohesion, Madugu is tasked with guiding Nigeria to their record-extending 12th WAFCON title. This tournament will be a defining moment for him as he seeks to balance the pressure of expectations with nurturing fresh talent.
🗓️ Group B Fixtures
Nigeria 🇳🇬 vs Tunisia 🇹🇳
📅 Sunday, 6 July 2025
📍 Stade Moulay Hassan, Rabat
🕕 18:00 (GMT+1)
Nigeria 🇳🇬 vs Botswana 🇧🇼
📅 Thursday, 10 July 2025
📍 Stade Moulay Abdellah, Rabat
🕗 20:00 (GMT+1)
Nigeria 🇳🇬 vs Algeria 🇩🇿
📅 Friday, 11 July 2025
📍 Stade Moulay Abdellah, Rabat
🕘 21:00 (GMT+1)
🎯 What’s at Stake
The mission is simple for Nigeria — reclaim the crown. But with South Africa, Morocco and Zambia all growing rapidly, this may be one of the most challenging tournaments for the Super Falcons in recent memory.
🔮 Final Word
Nigeria remains the benchmark in African women’s football. With a squad full of world-class talent and decades of experience, they are not just aiming to win — they expect to win. But if recent trends are anything to go by, they’ll need to fight harder than ever to stay on top.
