WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons Will Improve Ahead Title Defence — Madugu

Super Falcons head coach, Justine Madugu, has expressed confidence that the Nigerian women’s national team will continue to improve as preparations intensify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The reigning African champions secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Senegal in an international friendly played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on Friday.

The match served as part of their build-up activities ahead of the continental tournament.

Star forward Asisat Oshoala and midfielder Toni Payne both found the back of the net to secure the win for Nigeria, in a game that tested the team’s tactical structure and depth.

The Falcons are scheduled to face Senegal again in another friendly fixture at the same venue on Monday, as Madugu continues to assess his squad.

Speaking after the encounter, Madugu explained that the focus of the friendlies goes beyond results, stressing that the team is working on strategy, fitness, and player evaluation ahead of WAFCON 2026.

He noted that the matches are important opportunities to try different tactical approaches and give players the platform to prove themselves.

“This is a preparatory game. The aim is to assess our readiness, test the strategies we want to execute in the competition, and give players the opportunity to showcase what they can do,” Madugu said.

With the Super Falcons maintaining dominance in African women’s football, expectations remain high as the team continues its preparation to defend their title at the upcoming tournament.