WAFCON Title Defence Will Be "Tougher" With a World Cup Ticket at Stake
Super Falcons forward Chinwendu Ihezuo expects a far tougher fight to defend Nigeria's Women's Africa Cup of Nations title this year, with qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil now tied to the competition. Nigeria go into the tournament, held in Morocco from July 26 to August 16, as defending champions chasing a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
Ihezuo, who plays for Mexican club Pachuca Tuzas, said the World Cup places on offer will sharpen every team's approach compared to the last edition. "This tournament will be tougher, much tougher," she said. "Last year, there was no FIFA Women's World Cup ticket to fight for. When the first blast of the whistle goes on 26th July, the focus of all the teams will be on the World Cup ticket."
She was careful not to talk down Nigeria's own title defence despite the added stakes. "As defending champions, we cannot afford to be over-confident. However, I believe in the team that we have, the oneness amongst us, our hard work, and the courage that keeps us going. We are not only going for a World Cup ticket but also to retain the Cup."
Ihezuo also confirmed she has recovered fully from the injury that had kept her sidelined, and is ready to link up with the squad ahead of the tournament. "I am now healed and fully recovered. Presently, my club is in pre-season, but I am ready to fly to Morocco and team up with the Super Falcons of Africa to make Nigeria proud."
Beyond the trophy, the 2026 WAFCON doubles as Africa's qualifying competition for the 2027 Women's World Cup, raising the stakes for every nation involved.
