When the Super Falcons play the Amazons of Benin Republic in Tuesday’s 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Abeokuta, head coach Justine Madugu believes his squad will remain focused and not let their first-leg advantage get to them.
Nigeria won in Lomé last Friday thanks to goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo, giving them a 2-0 lead going into the second leg.
However, Madugu has urged his men to keep their complete focus and maintains that the match is far from over.
In a statement issued by the Nigeria Football Federation on Monday, Madugu stated, “We are looking forward to a tough game from the Beninoise, but we will be ready for that by putting up a good performance with the ultimate goal of qualification to the 2026 Women AFCON, where we hope to retain our title and further qualify for the World Cup in Brazil in 2027.”
He warned against becoming complacent, pointing out that the Benin team, which used a number of players from Europe in the first game, might cause issues if given room.
“With roughly ten professional players from Germany, Morocco, France, and Equatorial Guinea, the Amazons provided a strong performance in the first leg, highlighting the danger of underestimating any team in Africa right now. Nothing is being left up to chance or taken for granted. We’ll be prepared to give it everything we’ve got to win,” he continued.
It is anticipated that the coach will select a starting lineup that is comparable to the one that won in Lomé. Chiamaka Nnadozie, the goalie, will probably continue to play behind Michelle Alozie, Ashley Plumptre, Osinachi Ohale, and Tosin Demehin.
Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi may once again spearhead the attack, while captain Rasheedat Ajibade is anticipated to form a partnership with Deborah Abiodun and Taiwo Afolabi in midfield.
If additional attacking firepower is required, Madugu may also summon seasoned forward Asisat Oshoala, Joy Omewa, and Kafayat Mafisere.
The pivotal game will take place on Tuesday at 4 p.m. at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta. The winner of the aggregate will advance to the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
In an effort to maintain their dominance on the continent and gain momentum before the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, the Super Falcons resumed training in Abeokuta on Sunday.
