Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu has admitted that Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations have been disrupted because several countries refused to play friendly matches against the team.
Speaking in an interview with sports platform Brila ahead of the tournament in Morocco, Madugu said efforts by the Nigeria Football Federation to arrange international games have repeatedly failed despite reaching out to multiple countries.
“The fact is that most of the teams are not ready to play us,” Madugu said.
“I am aware they have made a lot of efforts at trying to reach out to so many teams.”
He added that “more than five countries” had been contacted, but many coaching staffs declined invitations once they learned they would face the Super Falcons.
Nigeria has played only two matches in 2026 so far, both against Cameroon in March, losing the first before winning the second 3-1. Planned games against Cape Verde and a proposed four-nation tournament involving Ghana, Senegal and Ivory Coast were later cancelled.
“We’re not happy about it because it’s not helping our preparations,” Madugu said, stressing that the shortage of competitive matches is affecting the team’s rhythm and tactical development.
The situation has increased concern among supporters and players ahead of the tournament, which will also serve as Africa’s qualification event for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Nigeria, the continent’s most successful women’s team with 10 WAFCON titles, will head to Morocco aiming to defend the championship it won after defeating Morocco in the previous final.
The Super Falcons have been drawn alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi, with our analysts warning that limited preparation could affect the team in a more competitive 16-team tournament format.
