Nigeria’s Women’s AFCON title defence unsettled by cash theft at Morocco team hotel

Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations have been overshadowed by the theft of more than $1,000 in cash from players’ rooms at the team hotel in Casablanca.

Several members of the Super Falcons squad were reportedly targeted at their accommodation in the Moroccan city, with money taken directly from wallets left in their rooms.

According to multiple Nigerian media outlets, a total of $1,220 was stolen from members of the delegation. Forward Esther Okoronkwo is understood to have suffered the biggest loss, with $700 missing, while captain Rasheedat Ajibade had $200 taken.

The incidents are said to have occurred at a Marriott hotel where the reigning African champions are based ahead of the tournament. Some players have expressed anger over what they view as a slow or inadequate response from the hotel’s management.

Cleaning staff at the establishment have been informally identified by some in the squad as potential suspects, with questions raised within the camp over access to the players’ rooms and personal belongings.

There has been no public confirmation of any internal investigation by the hotel, nor any indication that the missing money has been recovered. The situation has added an unwelcome off-field distraction as Nigeria fine-tune their plans for the continental showpiece.

Focus turns back to the pitch

Despite the frustration and disruption, the Super Falcons are expected to shift their focus quickly back to football, with their opening match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations against Malawi fast approaching.

Nigeria, the defending champions, are aiming to add another continental crown to their record tally, and had been using the camp in Casablanca to finalise tactical preparations and build team cohesion.

The alleged thefts, however, have marked a troubling start to their time in Morocco, forcing senior figures within the squad to help maintain calm and concentration in the group.

Ajibade, as captain, remains central to efforts to keep minds on the task ahead, while Okoronkwo and the other affected players continue to deal with the personal impact of losing their money so close to a major tournament.

The Super Falcons now face the challenge of putting the episode behind them as they move into the final stages of their build-up, with their title defence set to begin against Malawi in Morocco.