Jennifer Echegini says she is relishing the opportunity to represent Nigeria at her first Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the tournament as one filled with “a unique intensity.”
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder, who has already featured for the Super Falcons at the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games, is now preparing to take part in her debut AFCON.
Speaking to the CAF website, the 24-year-old underlined her enthusiasm for the experience.
“I’ve never played in a AFCON before. This will be the first time and I’m very excited. It’s a different atmosphere, a different energy. I can’t wait to experience it from the inside,” she said.
Echegini, widely regarded as one of the rising stars in Nigerian football, is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s campaign.
Her progression to this point has been steady, and her place in the squad reflects both her growth and the evolving identity of the Super Falcons.
Nigeria, placed in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, are widely seen as favourites to advance.
However, Echegini made it clear that the Super Falcons are not taking anything for granted.
“It’s a tough group. We’re the favorites, that’s clear. But in this kind of tournament, that means nothing. No team should be taken lightly. We’ll have to be focused from the first minute, never underestimate our opponents. That’s the basis,” she said.
The Super Falcons remain one of Africa’s most decorated women’s teams, boasting a history of dominance in continental competition.
With that legacy comes a weight of expectation — something Echegini says the current squad embraces.
“We’ve always had pressure. When you wear the Nigeria jersey, you know the expectations are huge. But that’s a good thing. These standards make us who we are. Nigeria has won many times. As a new generation, our duty is to continue this tradition. There is pressure. But everyone wants the same thing: victory.”
For Echegini, this tournament represents more than just competition — it’s a rite of passage.
As Nigeria prepares for its group stage matches, she will be central to the team’s efforts to reclaim their continental crown and uphold a proud footballing tradition.
