Super Falcons head coach, Justin Madugu, has disclosed that Nigeria is facing difficulties securing international friendly matches ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as several African teams are reportedly unwilling to face the reigning champions.
Speaking during an interview with Brila FM, Madugu revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had reached out to more than five countries in a bid to organize preparatory games, but efforts have yet to yield positive results.
According to him, while some football federations initially show interest, their coaching crews often decline the opportunity, citing reluctance to compete against the highly dominant Nigerian side.
“The reality is that many teams are not ready to play against us. A lot of attempts have been made to contact different countries,” Madugu stated.
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“Sometimes the federation agrees, but once the coaches are consulted, they pull back because they don’t want to face the Super Falcons.”
Nigeria heads into the tournament as defending champions, having secured a record-extending 10th WAFCON title in Morocco.
Their long-standing dominance in African women’s football appears to be a key factor discouraging potential opponents from engaging in friendly matches.
With the tournament scheduled to run from July 25 to August 16 in Morocco, the development poses a challenge for the Falcons’ preparation, as the team seeks to maintain competitive sharpness ahead of the continental showdown.
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