Nigeria head coach Justine Madugu says the Super Falcons are at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) to defend their title.

The defending champions are in Group C alongside Zambia, Malawi and Egypt. They will open their campaign this evening with a match against the debuting Scorchers of Malawi at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat.

“We are here for the defence of the WAFCON trophy, and the team is fully ready and set to go. We will stick to our game plan and our mission,” Madugu said.

Despite Malawi being debutants at the WAFCON, the feared striking power of the Chawinga sisters – Tabitha and Temwa – is capable of helping Malawi upset the Super Falcons.

With the talent Malawi possesses, Madugu has warned that the Super Falcons will not underrate any of their opponents in the group.

“We have huge respect for all our opponents,” Madugu said at Monday’s pre-match press conference in Rabat. “Every team that qualifies for this tournament deserves a lot of respect. Yes, they are debutants, but they are a very good side. We don’t take anything for granted. Everybody is coming here with a purpose and a mission, so you don’t undermine or underestimate what anybody can do.”

Fazili eyes history

On the other hand, Malawi’s head coach Lovermore Fazili said his side is aiming to make history by giving it their all against the ten-time champions.

“I think what I can say is that we are going there to fight because we cannot go to the battlefield aiming to be killed. We are going there to fight, and I am sure the players are aware of that,” said Fazili.

He added: “Nigeria are the champions, but sometimes history in football can change. We have seen before small teams doing wonders, so we are going there to fight and get something positive out of the game after 90 minutes.”