Head Coach Justine Madugu has said the Super Falcons will not take their West African neighbours, the Amazons of Benin Republic, for granted when both sides clash in the return leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Tuesday in Abeokuta.
Madugu acknowledged that despite Nigeria’s 2–0 advantage from the first leg in Lomé — secured through goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo — his players must remain focused and disciplined to complete the job.
He cautioned that the Beninese side could return stronger and more organised after their home defeat, urging his team to stay alert and maintain their winning mentality.
Read Also: Ekong backs ‘battle-ready’ Super Eagles to clinch fourth AFCON title
“We are looking forward to a tough game from the Beninoise, but we will be ready for that by putting up a good performance with the ultimate goal of qualification to the 2026 Women AFCON, where we hope to retain our title and further qualify for the World Cup in Brazil in 2027.
“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. We are not taking anything for granted or leaving anything to chance. We will be ready to go all out for victory.”
The Super Falcons will most likely parade the same squad as featured in the first leg in the Togolese capital three days ago, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal and Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin and Ashley Plumptre as rear-guard, while captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Deborah Abiodun and Taiwo Afolabi take hold of the midfield. Ihezuo, Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi should be at the fore, though Madugu also has the options of six-time Africa Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, Joy Omewa and Kafayat Mafisere.
The encounter at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta will kick off at 4pm, with the winner on aggregate earning a ticket to the 14th Women Africa Cup of Nations to be hosted by Morocco, 17th March – 3rd April 2026.
