“We Won’t Take Benin Lightly” — Super Falcons Coach Vows Total Focus Ahead Of Decisive Clash

According to Ireporter Online, Super Falcons head coach, Justine Madugu, has emphasized that his team will not underestimate their opponents as they prepare to face the Amazons of Benin Republic in the decisive second leg of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers on Tuesday in Abeokuta.

Nigeria holds a 2-0 aggregate lead from the first leg in Lomé, following goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo. However, Madugu insists that the tie is far from settled, urging his players to remain disciplined and focused throughout the encounter.

“We are expecting a strong challenge from the Benin team, but our focus remains on putting up a solid performance to seal qualification for the 2026 Women’s AFCON,” the coach said in a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). “Our ambition is not just to defend our continental title but also to secure a place at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.”

Madugu warned against complacency, noting that Benin’s squad—which features several foreign-based players—proved to be a formidable side in the first leg. “The Amazons have about ten professional players from Germany, Morocco, France, and Equatorial Guinea. They showed great quality, and any team that underrates them does so at its own risk. We are not taking anything for granted,” he added.

The coach is expected to maintain a largely unchanged lineup from the first leg, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie guarding the post, supported by defenders Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, and Ashley Plumptre. Midfield duties will likely fall to captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Deborah Abiodun, and Taiwo Afolabi, while Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi are set to lead the attack once again.

Madugu may also introduce experienced forward Asisat Oshoala, alongside Joy Omewa and Kafayat Mafisere, to bolster the team’s offensive options if necessary.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 4 p.m. on Tuesday at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta. The winner on aggregate will secure a place in the 14th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, slated to hold in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.

The Super Falcons resumed training in Abeokuta on Sunday as they aim to extend their dominance in African women’s football and build momentum toward the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.