Super Falcons Eye ‘Mission XI’ Glory As Coach Justine Madugu Warns Against Complacency Ahead Of Benin Republic Clash

Super Falcons Eye ‘Mission XI’ Glory As Coach Justine Madugu Warns Against Complacency Ahead Of Benin Republic Clash

Nigeria’s head coach, Justine Madugu, has made it clear — the Super Falcons won’t be taking anything for granted in their 2026 WAFCON qualifier second leg against Benin Republic. With a comfortable 2-0 first-leg lead, Madugu insists the team’s focus remains on one thing: retaining their continental title in Morocco next year.

Dubbed “Mission XI,” the campaign represents the Falcons’ quest to secure their 11th WAFCON title and maintain their dominance in African women’s football.

“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,” Madugu told the NFF.

He added, “We hope to retain our title and further qualify for the World Cup in Brazil in 2027.”

The Falcons’ 2-0 victory in Lome came courtesy of Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo, who were both sharp in attack. In Tuesday’s clash at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta, Madugu is expected to stick with the winning formula.

The likely lineup will feature Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal, supported by Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, and Ashley Plumptre in defence. The attacking trio of Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi are expected to lead the charge once again.

There’s also impressive depth on the bench — Asisat Oshoala, Joy Omewa, and Kafayat Mafisere are all available to provide attacking reinforcements if needed.

Qualification for WAFCON 2026 is more than a formality — it’s a mission of pride and consistency. For Nigeria, failure to advance would be nothing short of a national shock.

Esther Okoronkwo in competitive games for Nigeria in 2025:

7️⃣ matches
7️⃣ assists
3️⃣ goals

A standout year from our No. 6 #SoarSuperFalcons pic.twitter.com/w9t4i92XyF

— NGSuper_Falcons (@NGSuper_Falcons) October 24, 2025

With the home crowd behind them and momentum on their side, the Super Falcons are poised to finish the job in Abeokuta and continue their march toward continental glory.

Kick-off is set for 4 pm local time at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex.

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