Nigeria’s Super Falcons will launch their quest for a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title on Tuesday night when they face tournament debutants Malawi in their Group C opener at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, with head coach Justin Madugu insisting victory is the only acceptable outcome.
The defending champions arrive in Morocco as one of the tournament favourites after winning eight of their last nine matches across all competitions.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Madugu said his team would approach every fixture with the mentality of winning.
“Usually when you prepare for a competition, and you go for any tournament, your ultimate goal is to win. You approach every game as it comes and try as much as possible to make sure that you win all your games. For every match that we go into, the ultimate goal is to ensure that we win.”
Nigeria rounded off preparations with a 2-1 victory over Tanzania in a friendly, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade opening the scoring before Esther Okoronkwo netted the winner.
The Super Falcons are seeking another WAFCON triumph after defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 in the previous final.
Malawi, appearing at the tournament for the first time, come into the match after losing five of their last six outings, though they impressed during qualification by drawing with Zambia and defeating Angola.
Nigeria are expected to be without Ashleigh Plumptre through injury, but Madugu still has a strong squad led by Ajibade and Okoronkwo. Malawi will rely heavily on the attacking quality of sisters Tabitha Chawinga and Temwa Chawinga.
Preparations were briefly overshadowed after Okoronkwo disclosed that $700 was stolen from her wallet at the team’s hotel in Casablanca, with several teammates reportedly also affected. She later condemned the racist abuse she received online following the incident and reaffirmed the team’s focus on the competition.
“Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that. We move forward with pride, unity and determination. See you on the pitch,” she posted.
The Super Falcons will complete their Group C campaign against Zambia and Egypt after Tuesday’s opening fixture as they pursue another continental title.
