WAFCON 2026: ‘No room for complacency’ – Justin Madugu warns Nigeria against Malawi upset

Nigeria head coach Justin Madugu has warned his Super Falcons against taking Malawi lightly as they begin their defence of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) title.

The reigning champions will open their 2026 campaign against the Scorchers on Tuesday night at Rabat’s Al Madina Stadium, with expectations high following their record-extending 10th continental triumph last year.

Despite Malawi making their first-ever appearance at the tournament, Madugu believes the debutants have earned the right to be respected and insists Nigeria will approach the encounter with full focus.

The Super Falcons boss says qualification alone is proof of Malawi’s quality and warned his players against underestimating any opponent at the expanded continental showpiece.

“We have huge respect for all our opponents,” Madugu said at Monday’s pre-match press conference.

“Every team that qualifies for this tournament deserves commendation and a lot of respect. Yes, they are debutants, but they are a very good side.”

Super Falcons focused on title defence mission

Nigeria arrive in Morocco as the team to beat after defeating the hosts 3-2 in last year’s final to claim another Wafcon crown.

Madugu’s side are now tasked with achieving something they last managed in 2018 — successfully defending their continental title.

However, the coach insists the team’s priority is not reputation but performance, as every nation at the tournament arrives with its own ambitions.

“We don’t take anything for granted. Everybody is coming here with a purpose and a mission, so you don’t undermine or underestimate what anybody can do,” he added.

The Super Falcons have dominated African women’s football for decades, winning 10 of the 13 editions of the competition since its inception.

But with the tournament expanded to 16 teams and more countries closing the gap, Nigeria know they face a tougher challenge in their pursuit of another trophy.

Malawi pose dangerous opening challenge

Although Malawi are making their Wafcon debut, they enter the tournament with a squad capable of troubling the continent’s giants.

The Scorchers boast attacking threats including the Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa, who have both enjoyed impressive spells in elite leagues abroad.

Nigeria’s opening fixture will therefore serve as an early test of their ability to handle the pressure that comes with being defending champions.

Madugu, however, believes his team is fully prepared for the challenge and will remain committed to their approach.

“We are here for the defence of the WAFCON trophy and the team is fully ready and set to go. We will stick to our gameplan and our mission.”