Nigeria's Super Falcons remain good enough to challenge for another Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, but poor preparation could make the task much harder, our in-house sports analyst Ezinne Victoria Oti has warned.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Oti said the team's talent has often helped them overcome difficult situations, but warned that success cannot always make up for poor planning.
She said the Falcons have rarely ever received the level of preparation needed to stay ahead of other African teams, even though they have continued to dominate the continent.
"Normally, Nigerians expect them to go there, defy the odds and return with the trophy," she said, adding that there is a limit to what talent alone can achieve.
Oti pointed to hosts Morocco as an example of a team that has invested heavily in preparation.
She noted that Morocco reached the last WAFCON final and continues to improve.
She said qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup should also remain a major target for the Falcons while they chase another continental title.
Plumptre's Absence a Setback
Oti described the absence of defender Ashleigh Plumptre through injury as a major blow for Nigeria because of her quality, leadership and fighting spirit.
However, she said the Falcons still have enough experienced players to remain competitive.
She praised coach Justin Madugu's squad selection, highlighting defenders Shukurat Oladipo, Osinachi Ohale and Demehin Oluwatosin, while also welcoming the return of Uchenna Kanu and Gift Monday to strengthen the attack.
According to Oti, the current squad still has the teamwork and unity that helped Nigeria win its last WAFCON title.
She said she believes the Super Falcons have a strong enough squad to perform well in Morocco, but stressed that better preparation would have given the team a stronger chance of defending its crown.
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