Former Super Eagles striker Peter Ijeh believes the Super Falcons have what it takes to retain their WAFCON title despite facing their toughest challenge yet from Africa’s emerging women’s football powers.
Former Super Eagles forward Peter Ijeh has backed the Super Falcons to successfully defend their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, although he believes the 2026 edition will be one of the toughest in the competition’s history.
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Nigeria heads into the tournament in Morocco as the defending champions and record 10-time African champions, with the added objective of securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Speaking ahead of the competition, Ijeh acknowledged that the Super Falcons remain Africa’s benchmark but warned that the gap between Nigeria and the rest of the continent continues to narrow.
“I believe Nigeria can win an 11th WAFCON title. It’s mission possible, but it won’t be easy because every team now wants to beat the defending champions,” Ijeh said.
The former Nigeria international noted that the rapid development of women’s football across Africa has made the continental championship far more competitive than in previous years.
“This tournament will be more difficult than what we’ve seen before. Countries have invested heavily in women’s football, and everyone wants to dethrone Nigeria,” he added.
Despite the growing challenge posed by teams such as hosts Morocco, South Africa, Zambia and Ghana, Ijeh believes the Super Falcons possess the experience, quality and winning mentality required to remain at the summit of African women’s football.
Nigeria has won more WAFCON titles than any other nation and enters the tournament with a squad blending experienced internationals and exciting young talents capable of extending the country’s dominance on the continent.
Beyond retaining the continental crown, the Super Falcons are also targeting qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, making a strong start to the tournament crucial.
Ijeh believes that if the Super Falcons maintain their focus and handle the pressure that comes with being Africa’s most successful women’s national team, they have every chance of lifting a record-extending 11th WAFCON title in Morocco.
