Nigeria’s Super Falcons are entering the final phase of their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with an international friendly against long-time rivals Ghana on Saturday in Casablanca, Morocco.
The encounter will serve as an important test for the nine-time? No—record 10-time African champions as they build momentum ahead of their campaign at the continental championship, which is scheduled to run from July 19 to August 8.
Training Camp Underway in Casablanca
The Super Falcons officially began their training camp in Casablanca on Monday, with the coaching crew focusing on sharpening the squad before the tournament kicks off.
By Tuesday afternoon, 10 members of the team had already reported to the Marriott Hotel camp, while experienced midfielder Toni Payne was expected to complete the squad’s arrivals on Wednesday.
Head coach Justine Madugu wasted no time getting preparations underway, overseeing the team’s first training session at Stade El Arbi Zaouli on Tuesday.
Key Players Report for Duty
Several of Nigeria’s established stars were among the early arrivals, giving the coaching staff a solid foundation for the opening days of training.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade joined fellow internationals Chiamaka Nnadozie, Fatima Oloko, Oluwatosin Demehin, Glory Ogbonna, Shukurat Oladipo, Rofiat Imuran, Jennifer Echegini, Asisat Oshoala and Christy Ucheibe as the first group of players to settle into camp.
Their early presence allows the technical team to begin tactical drills and improve team chemistry ahead of the competition.
Ghana Match Offers Valuable Test
Saturday’s friendly against Ghana’s Black Queens is expected to provide a competitive assessment of Nigeria’s readiness before the tournament begins.
The match will take place at Stade El Arbi Zaouli in Casablanca, with kick-off scheduled for 4 p.m.
The fixture also renews one of African women’s football’s biggest rivalries.
Ghana finished as runners-up to Nigeria at the inaugural Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which was hosted by Nigeria in 1998.
Falcons Eye Strong Start in Group C
Nigeria will open their Group C campaign against Malawi in Rabat on July 20 before facing Zambia and Egypt in their remaining group-stage matches.
The Super Falcons are aiming to reclaim the continental crown and further extend their remarkable record as Africa’s most successful women’s national team.
A strong group-stage performance will be crucial as they chase another WAFCON title.
World Cup Qualification Also on the Line
The tournament carries additional importance beyond continental glory.
The four teams that reach the semi-finals will automatically qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Meanwhile, the nation that finishes fifth will earn a place in an intercontinental playoff, providing another pathway to the global tournament.
Full Group Line-Up for the 2026 WAFCON
The 16 participating nations have been drawn into four groups:
Group A: Morocco, Algeria, Senegal and Kenya.
Group B: South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso and Tanzania.
Group C: Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt and Malawi.
Group D: Ghana, Cameroon, Mali and Cape Verde.
With preparations gathering pace in Morocco, the Super Falcons will hope their clash against Ghana provides the ideal platform to launch another successful bid for African football’s biggest women’s prize.
