Nwadike Backs Falcons For 11th WAFCON Crown

Former Super Falcons striker Rita Nwadike has backed the 10-time African champions to retain their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title and extend their dominance on the continent.

The multiple WAFCON winner expressed confidence in the quality and experience within the current squad, insisting the team has everything it takes to secure a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.

Nwadike urged the players to approach every game with determination, discipline and the winning mentality that has defined the Nigerian women’s national team for decades.

“The Super Falcons remain the biggest team in women’s football in Africa. They have quality players, experienced professionals and a good technical crew. I believe they can successfully defend the title if they stay focused and play as a team,” she said on the MTN Super Falcons Show.

Nwadike also called on Nigerians to rally behind the team throughout the tournament, stressing that the players need the prayers and support of the nation as they embark on another quest for continental glory.

“Representing Nigeria comes with great responsibility, but I know these girls understand what is at stake. They should believe in themselves, give everything on the pitch and make the country proud. Nigerians should continue to support and encourage them.”The former international, who scored Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup goal in a 3-3 draw against Canada at the 1995 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Sweden, said wearing the green and white remains one of the greatest honours any player can have.

She added that the current generation has the opportunity to further cement their legacy by successfully defending the title and inspiring the next generation of female footballers across the country.

Nigeria head into WAFCON 2026 as defending champions and the most successful nation in the tournament’s history.

Drawn in Group C, the Falcons will face Malawi, Zambia and Egypt.

They will open their title defence against Malawi on Tuesday, July 28, before taking on Zambia on Saturday, August 1, and Egypt in their final group game four days later

This year’s tournament will also serve as the African qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with the four semi-finalists earning automatic qualification, while one additional team will advance through the intercontinental play-offs.