Three-time African Best Female Goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, reaffirmed the determination of the Super Falcons to approach the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with more focus, and clear objectives.
Speaking via the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the shot-stopper emphasized the importance of maintaining concentration throughout the tournament, noting that complacency could be costly at such a competitive level.
“We will take it one match at a time because we cannot afford to stumble at any stage as a result of over-confidence,” Nnadozie stated. “We will be focused squarely on the double targets of securing a FIFA Women’s World Cup ticket and retaining the trophy.”
The upcoming edition of the tournament will feature an expanded format, with 16 teams competing—an increase from the previous 12. While this development is expected to raise the level of competition, Nnadozie remains unfazed.
“It is interesting to have more teams at the finals. That will make the tournament more competitive, but we are calm and focused regardless of the number of teams in the finals,” she added.
Addressing perceptions about the strength of different groups, the Super Falcons goalkeeper dismissed the idea of any group being significantly tougher than others, highlighting the growing competitiveness of women’s football across the continent.
“I don’t share the belief that any group is tougher than the others. Honestly, right now in Africa, there are no longer minnows,” she said. “There will be a lot of surprises in this tournament as the so-called small teams will be keen to prove they are no push-overs, so all teams deserve respect and must be taken seriously.”
Despite acknowledging the challenges ahead, Nnadozie expressed confidence in the pedigree and ambition of the Super Falcons, Africa’s most successful women’s national team.
“For us, we know what we are going for: the Cup and the World Cup ticket. It will not be easy but we are the Super Falcons of Nigeria,” she concluded.
The Super Falcons will be aiming not only to defend their continental crown but also to secure qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup with expectations high and competition fiercer than ever, , reaffirming their dominance on the African stage.
A graduate of Federal Polytechnic Ede, she has built experience covering football leagues, tournaments, and major national news events across Nigeria.
She currently serves as the Media Officer of Ase Ridyem FC, where she oversees the club’s media and communication activities, helping to strengthen its digital presence and fan engagement.
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