Super Falcons Head Coach Justine Madugu has warned his team to “take nothing for granted” when they face the Amazons of Benin Republic on Tuesday, despite holding a 2-0 aggregate lead in their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying tie.
The decisive return leg will be played at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The reigning African champions secured their 2-0 advantage in the first leg in Lomé on Friday, with goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo. However, Madugu insists the Falcons are preparing for a much sterner test at home.
He specifically warned that the Amazons, who fielded several foreign-based professionals, have the quality to cause problems if underestimated.
”The Amazons, with about 10 professional players from Germany, Morocco, France and Equatorial Guinea, gave a good account of themselves in the first leg, to underscore the fact that underrating any team now in Africa could be at your own peril,” Madugu said in a statement on Monday.
”We are not taking anything for granted or leaving anything to chance. We will be ready to go all out for victory.”
The aggregate winner will seal qualification for the 14th WAFCON, scheduled to be held in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026. The Super Falcons, record 10-time continental champions, are seeking to extend their dominance and secure momentum for their bid to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Madugu is expected to maintain a largely unchanged lineup from the first leg. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is likely to retain her spot, with a defensive line of Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, and Ashley Plumptre.
In midfield, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Deborah Abiodun, and Taiwo Afolabi are set to orchestrVate play. Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi are tipped to lead the attack.
However, Madugu could also turn to experienced forward and six-time African Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, alongside Joy Omewa and Kafayat Mafisere, as alternative attacking options.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 4 p.m.
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