The Nigerian women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, renowned as nine-time African champions, are set to touch down in Casablanca, Morocco, on Wednesday, June 28, 2024, in preparation for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). This prestigious tournament, scheduled to unfold from July 5 to 26, will see the Super Falcons vying for their tenth continental title, further solidifying their status as Africa’s most decorated women’s national team. A vanguard of seven players, including US-based trio Asisat Oshoala, Michelle Alozie, and Deborah Abiodun, along with Chinwendu Ihezuo, Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Okoronkwo, and newcomer Chioma Okafor, have already arrived in Casablanca, setting the stage for the team’s arrival.
The remaining members of the Super Falcons squad, who recently engaged in a goalless draw against Portugal in a friendly match, are scheduled to depart Lisbon for Casablanca on Wednesday. This friendly, which showcased the exceptional skills of reigning African Goalkeeper of the Year, Chiamaka Nnadozie, served as a crucial warm-up for the upcoming WAFCON tournament. Nnadozie’s impressive saves were instrumental in keeping Nigeria in the game, while Francisca Ordega’s near-goal attempt, which rattled the crossbar, highlighted the team’s attacking prowess. The team’s arrival in Casablanca will mark the beginning of their final preparations for the tournament, including a friendly match against their long-standing rivals, Ghana’s Black Queens, on Sunday, June 29th.
The upcoming friendly against Ghana’s Black Queens, who have already established their training camp in Benslimane, Morocco, will provide a critical test for the Super Falcons. This match, scheduled for Sunday, June 29th, will offer invaluable insights into the team’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing coach Justin Madugu to fine-tune his strategies ahead of the WAFCON tournament. The Black Queens, having arrived in Morocco earlier, have a head start in acclimatizing to the local conditions, presenting a formidable challenge for the Super Falcons. This encounter will undoubtedly be a crucial test of the Super Falcons’ readiness for the challenges that lie ahead in the WAFCON tournament.
The Super Falcons’ participation in the WAFCON tournament carries significant weight, given their impressive track record. Having won nine out of the twelve championships contested since the Confederation of African Football (CAF) launched the event in 1998, they are undoubtedly the team to beat. Their quest for a tenth title underscores their dominance in African women’s football and their unwavering commitment to maintaining their position at the pinnacle of the sport. Drawn into Group B alongside Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria, the Super Falcons will play their matches at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
The Super Falcons’ journey in the 2024 WAFCON tournament commences on July 6th against Tunisia in Casablanca. This opening match will set the tone for their campaign, and a strong performance will be crucial in building momentum for subsequent group stage encounters. The team will then face Botswana and Algeria, both of whom will present unique challenges. Navigating the group stage successfully is paramount for the Super Falcons’ aspirations of lifting the trophy for a historic tenth time.
The Super Falcons’ arrival in Casablanca marks a critical juncture in their quest for WAFCON glory. With a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talent, the team is well-equipped to challenge for the title. The upcoming friendly against Ghana provides a valuable opportunity to refine their strategies and assess their readiness for the tournament. As the countdown to the 2024 WAFCON tournament continues, the Super Falcons remain focused on their ultimate goal: securing their tenth continental title and cementing their legacy as the queens of African football. Their arrival in Casablanca signals the beginning of their final preparations, and the anticipation for their performance is palpable. The stage is set for another exciting chapter in the Super Falcons’ illustrious history.
