Super Falcons discover timeline for WAFCON defence

Nigeria’s Super Falcons stand just one round away from sealing qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which is scheduled to take place in Morocco next spring. 

The Confederation of African Football have confirmed that the tournament will run from March 17 to April 3, 2026, marking a departure from the traditional summer or winter slots.

Morocco, which also staged the 2022 and 2024 (held in 2025) editions, has once again been selected as host. The shift in timing came after FIFA included Africa’s premier women’s competition in its global calendar, ensuring the event avoids clashes with other major tournaments and giving teams ample preparation time.

Super Falcons’ road to WAFCON 2026

Nigeria’s path to defending their continental crown begins this month. The West African nation, who claimed their 10th WAFCON title in Morocco months ago, must overcome Benin Republic in a two-legged qualifier. The first leg will be played away in Cotonou on October 20, followed by the return fixture in Abuja on October 24.

The Super Falcons enter this decisive stage still without a permanent head coach. Following the departure of American manager Randy Waldrum, assistant coach Justin Madugu has been serving in an interim capacity.

Madugu guided the team through the 2024 WAFCON and has earned plaudits for his steady leadership, sparking calls from supporters and pundits alike for his appointment to be confirmed on a permanent basis.

The Nigeria Football Federation has yet to make a final decision. Its Technical Committee, chaired by Rabiu Inuwa Ahlan, is expected to resolve the issue soon, with the qualifiers fast approaching.