Madugu Targets WAFCON Title Defence, 2027 World Cup Qualification

Madugu Targets WAFCON Title Defence, 2027 World Cup Qualification

By Niyi Busari 

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has outlined Nigeria's twin objectives for the upcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), saying the team is determined to retain its continental title and secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The tournament, scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 25 to August 16, will also serve as the qualification pathway for Africa's representatives at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

Nigeria head into the competition as defending champions after reclaiming the WAFCON title at the 2024 edition in Morocco, where the Super Falcons staged a remarkable comeback from two goals down to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final and lift a record-extending 10th continental crown.

Speaking to CAF Online, Madugu said qualifying for the World Cup remains the team's immediate priority, while defending the WAFCON title is equally important.

"The next WAFCON will also serve as qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, so our first objective is to secure qualification for the World Cup. The second is to defend the title and bring the trophy back to Nigeria," Madugu said.

He acknowledged the challenge of competing as reigning champions, noting that Nigeria will be the team every opponent wants to beat.

"We know it won't be easy because, as champions, everyone will be looking to take the trophy from us. We are holding something precious, but we will remain focused and determined to achieve our objectives," he added.

Despite Nigeria's dominance in African women's football, Madugu believes the team still has areas that require improvement ahead of the tournament.

Following the Super Falcons' two-match international friendly series against Senegal last month, the coach said the technical crew had identified aspects of the team's performance that need refinement.

"We are not a perfect team yet. We have made several observations from our preparatory matches and our previous performances. There are areas we know we must improve, and we will continue working on them," he said.

While declining to reveal specific tactical adjustments, Madugu stressed that continuous improvement remains a key focus as the team prepares for the continental showpiece.

Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana. The Super Falcons will open their title defence against Tunisia before facing Botswana and Algeria in their remaining group-stage fixtures.

Madugu is expected to announce his final squad for the tournament in the coming days as preparations enter the final phase.