Nigeria’s Super Falcons will begin the defence of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title on Tuesday night, when they face tournament debutants Malawi’s Scorchers at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
The reigning African champions are aiming for an emphatic start after lifting the trophy last year with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the final.
However, the Falcons have been put on notice after Morocco opened this year’s tournament with a commanding 4-0 victory over Kenya, underlining the fierce competition expected in the championship.
Despite Malawi making their first appearance at the continental showpiece, Head Coach Justine Madugu has warned against complacency, describing the Scorchers as a quality side capable of causing problems.
“We have huge respect for all our opponents. Every team here deserves to be at this tournament. Malawi are debutants, but they are a very good team.
“We won’t underestimate anyone because every nation has come with a mission,” Madugu said during Monday’s pre-match press conference.
Nigeria will be led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, with star players including Chiamaka Nnadozie, Asisat Oshoala, Esther Okoronkwo, Michelle Alozie, Deborah Abiodun and Chinwendu Ihezuo expected to feature.
The Falcons also boast impressive depth, with Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini, Gift Monday and Omorinsola Babajide available from the bench.
Read Also:
- Cardi B Sparks Dating Rumors With Super Eagles Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye After Venice Dinner
- Super Eagles Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye Sparks Dating Rumours With Cardi B After Paris Fashion Week Appearance
- NFF Pays Tribute As Former Super Eagles Coach Onigbinde Is Buried
Malawi, coached by Lovemore Fazili, will rely heavily on sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga, whose attacking threat makes the Scorchers dangerous despite their lack of tournament experience.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles made a perfect start to their WAFU B U-20 Championship campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over arch-rivals Ghana on Monday.
The defending champions struck first through Olayemi Ayinla in the sixth minute before Ghana equalised through Mohammed Zaidan in the 23rd minute.
Nigeria quickly regained control as Lucky Oraro’s deflected free-kick restored the lead in the 30th minute, while Muiz Adeleke converted a penalty eight minutes later to hand the Flying Eagles a comfortable 3-1 advantage at the break.
Ghana reduced the deficit after Kelvin Nkrumah scored from the penalty spot in the 60th minute, but Nigeria remained composed despite late pressure from the Black Satellites.
Adeleke sealed the victory in the 89th minute by converting his second penalty of the match, completing a deserved 4-2 triumph and sending the Flying Eagles to the top of Group B with an impressive opening-day performance.
