Toni Payne has admitted the Super Falcons will be under pressure to retain their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title but insists the team is fully focused on defending the crown in Morocco, Completesports.com reports.
The experienced midfielder was part of the Nigerian squad that captured a record-extending 10th WAFCON title at the 2024 tournament.
Justine Madugu’s side head into the 2026 edition as defending champions and favourites to lift the trophy once again.
In addition to chasing a successful title defence, the Super Falcons are also bidding to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, with the tournament serving as the African qualifiers.
Payne On Super Falcons Ambition
Payne acknowledged the expectations surrounding the team but expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to rise to the challenge and replicate their previous success.
Read Also:WAFCON 2026: Confident Super Falcons Arrive In Rabat, Ready For Title Defence
“It is known that Nigeria has this reputation of being the Giants of Africa,” Payne told FIFPRO.
“Playing for the Super Falcons holds a lot of weight, and there is a bit of pressure that we win the WAFCON.”
Success In Morocco
Payne also reflected on the Super Falcons’ success at the WAFCON 2024 finals.
“Winning it for that tenth time with that team was such a huge accomplishment for us,” Payne recalled.
“A lot of us, that was our first tournament, our first WAFCON, our first trophy. It meant so much to everyone on the team.”
By Adeboye Amosu
