Madugu warns against underestimating Malawi as Super Falcons open WAFCON title defence

Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has warned his defending champions against underestimating Malawi ahead of Nigeria's WAFCON 2026 opener against the tournament debutants on Tuesday, July 30. Despite Malawi's first-time appearance, Madugu insists Nigeria will approach the match with caution and respect, noting every team at the continental tournament has ambition and deserves respect.

The warning carries extra weight as Nigeria pursues twin goals: defending their record-extending 10th WAFCON title and securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. With the tournament serving as Africa's qualifier, only the four semi-finalists earn automatic World Cup spots. Nigeria, grouped with Malawi, Zambia and Egypt in Group C, needs a strong start before facing Zambia on August 1 and Egypt on August 5 to stay on track for both objectives.

Madugu emphasized his team's focus remains on retaining the crown they won last year by coming back from two goals down to beat hosts Morocco in the final. While acknowledging Malawi's quality after their 2-0 aggregate qualifier win over Angola, he stressed Nigeria's determination to begin their campaign with a performance that sets the tone for title defence and World Cup qualification aspirations.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/28/madugu-wary-of-malawi-as-super-falcons-begin-wafcon-title-defence/