By Dorcas Francis Koji
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has declared that Nigeria’s only objective is victory when the defending champions begin their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign against Malawi on Tuesday night in Morocco.
The Atletico Madrid forward said the squad is fully prepared and motivated to launch its title defence with a positive result as Nigeria pursues a record-extending 11th continental crown.
Speaking during the team’s pre-match press conference in Rabat, Ajibade revealed that confidence and determination are running high within the camp.
“The spirit in the camp is excellent. Every player understands the responsibility before us, and we are completely focused on achieving our goals. We are taking each game as it comes, and we are fully ready for the challenge,” she said.
Nigeria opens its Group C campaign against tournament debutants Malawi at Stade El Barid, with Zambia and Egypt also competing for qualification to the knockout stage.
Although the Super Falcons enter the match as overwhelming favourites, Ajibade stressed that the team would not underestimate the Scorchers, noting that the rapid growth of women’s football across Africa has made every opponent capable of producing surprises.
“We have great respect for every team in this competition. Malawi qualifying for WAFCON for the first time shows the progress they have made through deliberate investment in women’s football. Some of their players are competing in top European leagues, and that tells you the future of women’s football in Africa is very promising,” she added.
While acknowledging the importance of entertaining football, the Nigerian skipper maintained that securing maximum points remains the team’s top priority.
“For us, a successful performance simply means winning. You can dominate possession, play attractive football and execute your tactics perfectly, but if you don’t get the three points, all of that counts for very little in a tournament like this.”
Ajibade also appealed to Nigerian supporters to continue standing behind the team throughout the competition, describing their encouragement as a major source of motivation.
“We feel the love and support from Nigerians everywhere. Their encouragement has always inspired us to give our best. We ask them to keep believing in us and continue supporting us because we will do everything possible to make the country proud.”
Beyond the championship, the 25-year-old called on football administrators and stakeholders to focus on creating a healthier and more supportive environment for female athletes, insisting that long-term development depends on more than just infrastructure.
“It is important to create an environment where female athletes feel safe, respected and encouraged to develop. Facilities are important, but creating the right atmosphere is equally essential. Those of us with a platform must continue to inspire and mentor the next generation.”
The Super Falcons head into the tournament in confident mood after defeating Tanzania 2-1 in their final warm-up match, while Malawi arrives in Morocco for its maiden appearance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Kick-off for the Group C encounter is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. Nigerian time, with Nigeria hoping to begin another title-winning campaign in convincing fashion.
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