WAFCON Qualifier: Madugu warns against complacency as Super Falcons battle Benin
Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu says his team will approach Tuesday’s 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Benin Republic in Abeokuta with full seriousness, despite holding a comfortable first-leg advantage.
The 10-time African champions lead the tie 2-0 on aggregate, thanks to goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo in the first leg played at the Stade Kégué in Lomé on Friday.
Read Also: Super Falcons thrash Benin 2-0 to boost WAFCON hopes
But Madugu insists his side will not underestimate the Amazons of Benin, who are expected to come out stronger in the return leg.
“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 for the 2026 WAFCON,” Madugu said.
“They have some quality players from Germany, Morocco, France and Equatorial Guinea, so we’re not taking anything for granted. Underrating any team in Africa now is dangerous — we’ll be going all out for victory.”
The Super Falcons are expected to retain much of the same lineup from the first leg, with Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal, Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, and Ashley Plumptre forming the backline.
Rasheedat Ajibade, Deborah Abiodun, and Taiwo Afolabi will anchor the midfield, while Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi are likely to lead the attack.
Madugu also has attacking options in Asisat Oshoala, Joy Omewa, and Kafayat Mafisere if needed.
The return leg will take place at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, with the winner on aggregate advancing to the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled for March 17 to April 3, 2026, in Morocco.
